Conservative Reductionism

This book presents a new perspective on the relationship between functional and physical properties, arguing for a unified understanding through functional reduction.

In Conservative Reductionism, the authors explore the intricate relationship between functional properties and causal properties in the world. They argue that all properties, including physical ones, can be understood as functional properties, thereby challenging the traditional dichotomy between functional and physical descriptions. This perspective lays the groundwork for a conservative ontological reductionism, where the authors assert that all true descriptions in the special sciences can ultimately be reduced to physical descriptions through functional reduction, regardless of the complexities of multiple realization.

The book further develops the concept of functional reduction into a comprehensive theory by introducing functional sub-types that align closely with physical types. This innovative approach is supported by case studies from biology, particularly examining the interplay between classical and molecular genetics. By presenting these case studies, the authors illustrate how conservative reductionism can be applied practically, offering insights into the nature of scientific explanation and the interconnectedness of various scientific disciplines.

Overall, Conservative Reductionism provides a thought-provoking examination of the metaphysics of properties and the philosophy of physics. It invites readers to reconsider the relationship between different scientific domains and encourages a more unified understanding of the natural world through the lens of functionalism. This book is essential for anyone interested in the philosophy of science and the foundational questions surrounding the nature of properties and explanations in scientific inquiry.