The Evolutionary Dynamics of Complex Systems

This book examines sociobiology and evolution from the scientific and philosophical perspectives. Both sociobiology and evolution are areas of modern biology fraught with controversy and misunderstanding, yet fundamental to a coherent view of human life. For scientists and philosophers of science, at issue are the basic underpinnings of biology: explanation, determination, teleology, reductionism, and hierarchy. Professor Dyke describes the controversies involved, and argues that progress in sociobiology and evolution is hindered by an outmoded philosophical view of science - one that does not adequately take into account recent advances in our understanding of basic biological processes. The author aims to shift the focus from a philosophical understanding of biology to a dynamic, philosophically aware science.