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Function, Homology, and Character Individuation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2022

Paul E. Griffiths
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Abstract

I defend the view that many biological categories are defined by homology against a series of arguments designed to show that all biological categories are defined, at least in part, by selected function. I show that categories of homology are ‘abnormality inclusive’—something often alleged to be unique to selected function categories. I show that classifications by selected function are logically dependent on classifications by homology, but not vice-versa. Finally, I reject the view that biologists must use considerations of selected function to abstract away from variation and pathology to form a canonical description of a class of biological systems.

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Research Article
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Philosophy of Science , Volume 73 , Issue 1 , January 2006 , pp. 1 - 25
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Copyright © The Philosophy of Science Association

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