The Evolutionary Dynamics of Complex Systems: A Study in Biosocial Complexity (Monographs on the History and Philosophy of Biology)

Dyke examines the controversial topics of sociobiology and evolution from scientific and philosophical perspectives. At issue are the basic underpinnings of biology: explanation, determination, teleology, reductionism, and hierarchy. The author proposes that progress in sociobiology and evolution is hindered by an outmoded philosophical view of science that does not adequately take into account recent advances in our understanding of basic biological processes. His goal is to shift the focus from a philosophical understanding based on observation from outside biology to a dynamic, philosophically aware science.