Engineering Design and Adaptation

Richardson, Robert C. (2002) Engineering Design and Adaptation.

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Abstract

Reverse engineering is a matter of inferring adaptive function from structure. The utility of reverse engineering for evolutionary biology has been a matter of controversy. I offer a simple taxonomy of the uses of engineering design in assessing adaptation, with a variety of illustrations. The plausibility of applications of engineering design reflects the specific way the models are elaborated and derived.

Keywords:Evolutionary Theory, Biology, Structure, Function
Conferences and Volumes:[2002] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 18th Biennial Mtg - PSA 2002: Contributed Papers (Milwaukee, WI; 2002): PSA 2002 Contributed Papers
ID Code:1093
Deposited By:Program Committee,
Deposited On:23 March 2003