Philosophy of Biology
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Philosophy of Biology
Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
This is a concise, comprehensive, and accessible introduction to the philosophy of biology written by a leading authority on the subject. Geared to philosophers, biologists, and students of both, the book provides sophisticated and innovative coverage of the central topics and many of the latest developments in the field. Emphasizing connections be
This is a concise, comprehensive, and accessible introduction to the philosophy of biology, written by a leading authority on the subject. Geared to philosophers, biologists, and students of both, the book provides sophisticated and innovative coverage of the central topics and many of the latest developments in the field.
Emphasizing connections between biological theories and other areas of philosophy, and carefully explaining both philosophical and biological terms, Peter Godfrey-Smith discusses the relation between philosophy and science; examines the role of laws, mechanistic explanation, and idealized models in biological theories; describes evolution by natural selection; and assesses attempts to extend Darwin's mechanism to explain changes in ideas, culture, and other phenomena.
Further topics include functions and teleology, individuality and organisms, species, the tree of life, and human nature. The book closes with detailed, cutting-edge treatments of the evolution of cooperation, of information in biology, and of the role of communication in living systems at all scales.
Authoritative and up-to-date, Philosophy of Biology is an essential guide for anyone interested in the important philosophical issues raised by the biological sciences.
Series: Princeton Foundations of Contemporary Philosophy
View allBook Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Praised as "one of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles for 2014," the book is recognised for its clarity, accessibility, and comprehensive coverage. Reviewers highlight its engaging style suitable for both specialists and non-specialists alike, with John Farrell of Forbes.com noting Godfrey-Smith's "almost conversational" tone. It is described as an excellent textbook and a stimulating analysis with philosophical depth, recommended for philosophers, biologists, and related disciplines.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780691174679
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 September 2016
Country: United States
Imprint: Princeton University Press
Illustration: 3 line illus.
Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Width: 140.0mm
Height: 216.0mm
Weight: 255g
Pages: 200
About the Author
Peter Godfrey-Smith is Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at the CUNY Graduate Center. He is the author of Theory and Reality: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science and Darwinian Populations and Natural Selection.
Also by Peter Godfrey-Smith
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