Biological Theory 2(2) 2007, 168–178.
Fact, Phenomenon, and Theory in the Darwinian Research Tradition
Bruce H. Weber
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
California State University Fullerton
Fullerton, CA, USA
bhweber@fullerton.edu
&
Robert H. Woodworth Chair in Science and Natural Philosophy
Bennington College
Bennington, VT, USA
Abstract
From its inception Darwinian evolutionary biology has been seen as having a problematic relationship of fact and theory. While the forging of the modern evolutionary synthesis resolved most of these issues for biologists, critics continue to argue that natural selection and common descent are “only theories.” Much of the confusion engendered by the “evolution wars” can be clarified by applying the concept of phenomena, inferred from fact, and explained by theories, thus locating where legitimate dissent may still exist. By setting such analysis in the context of research traditions, it is possible to gain further insight into the complex interplay of facts, phenomena, and theories. Two case studies are explored to assess the value of such approaches, one from within evolutionary biology, the Baldwin effect, and one from outside, intelligent design.
Keywords
Baldwin effect, Darwinian research tradition, Darwinism, evolution, fact, intelligent design, neo-Darwinism, phenomenon, research program, research tradition, theory
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