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Calculating life? Duelling discourses in interdisciplinary systems biology
Jane Calvert1, Joan H Fujimura
1ESRC Innogen Centre, Institute for the Study of Science, Technology and Innovation (ISSTI), University of Edinburgh, Old Surgeons' Hall, Edinburgh EH1 1LZ, UK. jane.calvert@ed.ac.uk
Summary
Systems biology integrates physics and biology, prompting scientists to debate its epistemic goals. This field examines quantification and predictability, contrasting with molecular biology and influencing future life sciences research.
Area of Science:
- Systems biology
- Philosophy of science
- Sociology of science
Background:
- Systems biology emerges at the intersection of physics and biology.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration in systems biology highlights epistemological debates.
- Scientists in the field engage in discussions about their scientific philosophy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the epistemic aspirations within systems biology.
- To examine how systems biology positions itself relative to molecular biology.
- To investigate the sociological dimensions of epistemic tensions in systems biology.
Main Methods:
- Interviews with systems biologists.
- Attendance at systems biology conferences and workshops.
- Visits to systems biology laboratories.
Main Results:
- Systems biologists discuss reductionism to differentiate their field from molecular biology.
- Debates exist regarding the adoption of physics and engineering standards (quantification, predictability).
- Some systems biologists aim to make living systems calculable and predictable, akin to physics and engineering.
Conclusions:
- Epistemic tensions exist within systems biology regarding scientific standards.
- The field's aspirations range from embracing physical science models to acknowledging the unique nature of living systems.
- These tensions have significant sociological implications for the future of life sciences.
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