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Mentioned in 1 episodes
The Spandrels of San Marco
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Book •
Stephen Jay Gould's "The Spandrels of San Marco" is a seminal essay that challenges the adaptationist program in evolutionary biology.
Gould and Lewontin argue against the tendency to explain every biological trait as an adaptation, highlighting the importance of historical contingency and constraints.
They use the architectural spandrels of San Marco as a metaphor, showing how seemingly designed features can arise as byproducts of other structures.
The essay emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of evolutionary processes, considering factors beyond simple adaptation.
It sparked significant debate and influenced the development of evolutionary developmental biology.
The essay's impact extends beyond biology, influencing discussions in philosophy and other fields.
Gould and Lewontin argue against the tendency to explain every biological trait as an adaptation, highlighting the importance of historical contingency and constraints.
They use the architectural spandrels of San Marco as a metaphor, showing how seemingly designed features can arise as byproducts of other structures.
The essay emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of evolutionary processes, considering factors beyond simple adaptation.
It sparked significant debate and influenced the development of evolutionary developmental biology.
The essay's impact extends beyond biology, influencing discussions in philosophy and other fields.
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Mentioned in 1 episodes
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Christopher Ryan as a great essay discussing architectural phenomenon and evolutionary theory.
Christopher Ryan as a great essay discussing architectural phenomenon and evolutionary theory.
651 - Becoming Uncivilized (with Anya and Nadia)
