Reduction and Mechanism

This book explores the philosophical debates surrounding reductionism and its evolution into the contemporary understanding of mechanism, highlighting its significance in biology.

In Reduction and Mechanism, the author delves into the intricate philosophical debates surrounding reductionism, exploring its evolution from a methodological approach to a broader discourse on mechanism. This volume highlights how reductionism has been embraced by biologists while simultaneously facing opposition from various philosophical fronts. The text examines the historical context of reductionism, tracing its development over the last 75 years and its impact on the philosophy of science, particularly in relation to Darwinian natural selection.

The book addresses the controversies that have arisen around reductionism, emphasizing its role as both a metaphysical theory and an epistemic thesis. While reductionism has proven to be a powerful tool for scientific inquiry, its foundational metaphysical claims have sparked significant debate. The author outlines the transition from traditional reductionist views to contemporary perspectives that favor a more nuanced understanding of biological mechanisms, which are now seen as integral to the philosophy of biology.

Ultimately, Reduction and Mechanism presents a comprehensive analysis of the ongoing discussions in the field, including key concepts such as supervenience, multiple realizability, and explanatory exclusion. By framing reductionism within the context of modern scientific practices, the book offers insights into how the emerging doctrine of mechanism retains the strengths of reductionism while addressing its historical challenges.