The Origin of Life, Agency & Purpose: Terrence Deacon’s Theory

Jeremy Sherman's "Neither Ghost Nor Machine" explores Taron Deacon's theory of life, agency, and purpose, challenging traditional scientific and philosophical views. The book questions how teleological concepts fit into a naturalistic understanding of the world and living creatures. It investigates the emergence of the first primitive goal-pursuing organisms and seeks to reconcile the gap between non-conscious and conscious teleology. Sherman delves into how life can be understood as a self-generating process and discusses the implications for free will and ethics. The book presents Deacon's autogen theory, proposing that value can emerge from sterile dynamics within an otherwise aimless universe.

Dennis Walsh's "Organisms, Agency, and Evolution" explores the role of organisms as active agents in the evolutionary process, challenging gene-centric views. The book emphasizes that understanding the nature of living things is crucial for comprehending evolutionary dynamics. Walsh argues that organisms are not merely passive carriers of genes but active participants shaping their own evolution. The book suggests a shift in focus toward the capacities and behaviors of organisms and away from reductionist views. Walsh uses JJ Gibson’s perceptual theory of affordances and explores the interplay between agency, causation, and the metaphysical foundations of biology.

Harry Binswanger's "Biological Basis of Teleological Concepts" examines the philosophical underpinnings of teleology in living organisms, addressing how non-conscious goals can be understood. Binswanger explores the relationship between past instances of circulation and the current beating of the heart. The book connects this to the perpetuation and development of organisms, influenced by Ayn Rand's concept of goal-directed actions. Binswanger's approach emphasizes the automatic functions of living organisms, focusing on the preservation of an organism's life. It provides a framework to understand non-conscious teleology without implying conscious intent, arguing that the organism's structure results in its continued existence.

Samir Okasha's "Agents and Goals in Evolution" delves into the concept of agency and goal-directedness within evolutionary biology. The book explores how evolutionary processes can give rise to entities that act as agents with specific goals. Okasha offers an insightful analysis of the role of organisms as active agents playing causal roles in their lives. The book examines agency in the context of natural selection, adaptation, and the broader framework of evolutionary theory. It emphasizes the shift towards a more metaphysical discussion of causation and the capacities of entities, providing a fresh perspective on the core principles of evolutionary biology.