Functional Explanation in Biology

1 January 1965

journal article
Published by Cambridge University Press (CUP) in Philosophy of Science

Vol. 32 (1) , 1-20
https://doi.org/10.1086/288022

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the problem of giving a correct analysis of function statements as they are used in biology. Examples of such statements are (1) The function of the myelin sheath is to insulate the nerve fiber and (2) The function of chlorophyll is to enable photosynthesis to take place. After criticizing analyses of such statements developed by Braithwaite, Nagel and Hempel an analysis is presented by the author. Finally the question of whether function statements are explanations is discussed briefly.

Keywords

This publication has 4 references indexed in Scilit:

The Structure of Science
American Journal of Physics, 1961
The Biological Way of Thought
Published by Columbia University Press ,1959
XI.—Teleological Explanation
Proceedings of the Aristotelian Society (Hardback), 1951
THE WISDOM OF THE BODY
The Lancet Healthy Longevity, 1932