Species : The Evolution of the Idea

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"Over time the complex idea of ‶species” has evolved, yet its meaning is far from resolved. This comprehensive work is a fresh look at an idea central to the field of biology by tracing its history from antiquity to today. Species is a benchmark exploration and clarification of a concept fundamental to the past, present, and future of the natural sciences. In this edition, a section is added on the debate over species since the time of the New Synthesis, and brings the book up to date. This edition is better suited nonspecialists in philosophy, so that it will be of greater use for scientists wishing to understand how the notion came to be that living organisms form species."--Provided by publisher. Read more... Abstract: "Over time the complex idea of ‶species” has evolved, yet its meaning is far from resolved. This comprehensive work is a fresh look at an idea central to the field of biology by tracing its history from antiquity to today. Species is a benchmark exploration and clarification of a concept fundamental to the past, present, and future of the natural sciences. In this edition, a section is added on the debate over species since the time of the New Synthesis, and brings the book up to date. This edition is better suited nonspecialists in philosophy, so that it will be of greater use for scientists wishing to understand how the notion came to be that living organisms form species."--Provided by publisher Content: Prologue: The Received View. The failure of the Received View. The historical development of "species." The classical era: Science by division. The medieval bridge. Species and the birth of modern science. The Noah's Ark part is new, based on my later research. The nineteenth century, a period of change. Darwin and the Darwinians. Non-Darwinian ideas after Darwin. The Synthesis and species. Modern debates. Philosophical treatments.