PhilSci Archive

Multiple Realization in Systems Biology

Fang, Wei (2020) Multiple Realization in Systems Biology. [Preprint]

[img]
Preview
Text (Forthcoming in Philosophy of Science)
Multiple Realization in Systems Biology - preprint.pdf - Accepted Version

Download (512kB) | Preview

Abstract

Polger and Shapiro (2016) claim that unlike human-made artifacts cases of multiple realization in naturally occurring systems are uncommon. Drawing on cases from systems biology, I argue that multiple realization in naturally occurring systems is not as uncommon as Polger and Shapiro initially thought. The relevant cases, which I draw from systems biology, involve generalizable design principles called network motifs which recur in different organisms and species and perform specific functions. I show that network motifs with entirely different underlying causal structures can perform the same function of interest. The article also considers the scope problem of multiple realization.


Export/Citation: EndNote | BibTeX | Dublin Core | ASCII/Text Citation (Chicago) | HTML Citation | OpenURL
Social Networking:
Share |

Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Fang, Weiwesleyfang@outlook.com0000000198560599
Additional Information: forthcoming in Philosophy of Science
Keywords: multiple realization, systems biology, design principles, network motifs, causal structures, functions
Subjects: General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics
Depositing User: Dr. Wei Fang
Date Deposited: 25 Oct 2019 04:12
Last Modified: 25 Oct 2019 04:12
Item ID: 16576
Subjects: General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics
Date: 2020
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/16576

Monthly Views for the past 3 years

Monthly Downloads for the past 3 years

Plum Analytics

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item