The emerging structure of the Extended Evolutionary Synthesis: where does Evo-Devo fit in?

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Philosophy of Science

Background:

• The Extended Evolutionary Synthesis (EES) is a significant topic in contemporary evolutionary biology.
• Existing philosophical interpretations of the EES include Kuhnian paradigms and Lakatosian research program reformations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an alternative philosophical interpretation of the EES.
• To conceptualize the EES as a network of models and representations.
• To critically evaluate existing EES structures and identify gaps, particularly concerning Evo-Devo.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of philosophical viewpoints on the EES.
• Development of a network-based model for the EES.
• Critical examination of Laland et al.'s (2015) EES structure.
• Identification of epistemic units within Evo-Devo relevant to the EES.

Main Results:

• The EES can be understood as a paraconsistent network of theories, models, and practices.
• This network model challenges existing Kuhnian and Lakatosian interpretations.
• The network perspective highlights the dynamic and interconnected nature of evolutionary biology.
• An analysis of Evo-Devo reveals missing epistemic units within the current EES framework.

Conclusions:

• A network-based model provides a more comprehensive understanding of the Extended Evolutionary Synthesis.
• This framework accommodates diverse theories, models, and practices within evolutionary biology.
• Further research is needed to integrate Evo-Devo's epistemic units into the EES.