The Dialectics of Dis/Unity in the Evolutionary Synthesis and Its Extensions
The Dialectics of Dis/Unity in the Evolutionary Synthesis and Its Extensions
This chapter proposes a dialectical solution and reviews the history of the Evolutionary Synthesis, drawing some morals to inform the current debate about its extension. It also considers the complications for the reductionist unification program, and elucidates some questions regarding the connection between unification and explanation. In addition, the chapter covers some currently envisaged “lateral extensions” of the Synthesis are covered, focusing on their interrelations. It suggests that the Synthesis has been characterized by “lateral” and “vertical” extensions and by simultaneous disunifying tendencies, with no end in sight.
Keywords: dialectical solution, Evolutionary Synthesis, reductionist unification program, lateral extensions, vertical extensions, disunifying tendencies
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