Stern, Julio (2026) Borromean Rings: Chance and Complementarity, Homology and Archetype, Analogy and Prototype. [Preprint]

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Abstract

In this article we develop the Borromean rings metaphor for the complex entanglement of three threads with complementary pairs of concepts, like Chance and Complementarity, Homology and Archetype, and Analogy and Prototype. The context of application of this concepts includes biological theories of evolution, the means and methods used for studying divergence and convergence processes leading to life forms most beautiful, and their organization in a tree of life of phylogenetic history. Moreover, we suggest innovative definitions for the concepts of Analogy and Prototype, and motivate their use for acquiring valuable quantitative information leading to powerful methods of analysis that, in turn, can be helpful for reaching correct and clear conclusions while avoiding logical traps and pitfalls. Furthermore, we explain how the concepts of Analogy and Prototype can support teleological or functional interpretations. Finally, we consider philosophical consequences of these discussions concerning the use and meaning of language, and indicate some topics for further research.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Stern, Julio jstern@ime.usp.br 0000-0003-2720-3871
Keywords:	Complementarity, Probability and inference, Discrete and convex sets, Homology, Archetype and structure, Analogy, Prototype and function, Tree of Life.
Subjects:	General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics Specific Sciences > Biology Specific Sciences > Biology > Evolutionary Theory Specific Sciences > Biology > Function/Teleology Specific Sciences > Biology > Systematics General Issues > Confirmation/Induction General Issues > History of Philosophy of Science General Issues > Laws of Nature General Issues > Models and Idealization Specific Sciences > Probability/Statistics General Issues > Structure of Theories
Depositing User:	Prof. Julio Michael Stern
Date Deposited:	06 May 2026 19:14
Last Modified:	06 May 2026 19:14
Item ID:	29500
Subjects:	General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics Specific Sciences > Biology Specific Sciences > Biology > Evolutionary Theory Specific Sciences > Biology > Function/Teleology Specific Sciences > Biology > Systematics General Issues > Confirmation/Induction General Issues > History of Philosophy of Science General Issues > Laws of Nature General Issues > Models and Idealization Specific Sciences > Probability/Statistics General Issues > Structure of Theories
Date:	26 April 2026
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/29500

Available Versions of this Item

• Borromean Rings: Chance and Complementarity, Homology and Archetype, Analogy and Prototype. (deposited 28 Apr 2026 21:53)
  • Borromean Rings: Chance and Complementarity, Homology and Archetype, Analogy and Prototype. (deposited 06 May 2026 19:14) [Currently Displayed]

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