Prediction in Selectionist Evolutionary Theory
Winther, Rasmus Grønfeldt (2009) Prediction in Selectionist Evolutionary Theory. In [2008] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 21st Biennial Mtg (Pittsburgh, PA): PSA 2008 Contributed Papers.
This is the latest version of this eprint.
Full text available as: |
Abstract
Selectionist evolutionary theory has often been faulted for not making novel predictions that are surprising, risky, and correct. I argue that it in fact exhibits the theoretical virtue of predictive capacity in addition to two other virtues: explanatory unification and model fitting. Two case studies show the predictive capacity of selectionist evolutionary theory: parallel evolutionary change in E. coli, and the origin of eukaryotic cells through endosymbiosis.
| Keywords: | Prediction, Evolutionary Theory, Explanatory Unification, Model-Fitting, Theoretical Virtue, Endosymbiosis, Bacterial Evolution |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | Specific Sciences: Biology: Evolutionary Theory |
| Conferences and Volumes: | [2008] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 21st Biennial Mtg (Pittsburgh, PA): PSA 2008 Contributed Papers |
| ID Code: | 4770 |
| Deposited By: | Grønfeldt Winther, Rasmus |
| Deposited On: | 21 July 2009 |
Available Versions of this Item
- Prediction in Selectionist Evolutionary Theory (deposited 04 November 2008)
- Prediction in Selectionist Evolutionary Theory (deposited 21 July 2009) [Currently Displayed]