How (not) to be a reductionist in a complex universe
Stotz, Karola (2007) How (not) to be a reductionist in a complex universe. In [2008] Reduction and the Special Sciences (Tilburg, April 10-12, 2008).
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Abstract
This paper understands reductionism as a relation between explanations, not theories. It argues that knowledge of the micro-level behavior of the components of systems is necessary, but only combined with a full specification of the contingent context sufficient for a full explanation of systems phenomena. The paper takes seriously fundamental principles independent and transcendent of the laws of quantum mechanics that govern most of real-world phenomena. It will conclude in showing how the recent postgenomic revolution, taking seriously the physical principle of organization and collective behavior, can be understood as attempting to complement a reductionist investigative strategy with an antireductionist explanatory strategy.
| Keywords: | principle of organization, self-organization, ontological reductionism, methodological reductionism, reductionist investigative strategy, antireductionist explanatory strategy, postgenomic biology |
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| Subjects: | General Issues: Reductionism/Holism |
| Conferences and Volumes: | [2008] Reduction and the Special Sciences (Tilburg, April 10-12, 2008) |
| ID Code: | 3866 |
| Deposited By: | Stotz, Karola |
| Deposited On: | 04 Febuary 2008 |