Toward a mechanistic explanation of phenotypic evolution: The need for a theory of theory integration

Manfred Laubichler, Sonja J. Prohaska, Peter F. Stadler

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Reconciling different underlying ontologies and explanatory contexts has been one of the main challenges and impediments for theory integration in biology. Here, we analyze the challenge of developing an inclusive and integrative theory of phenotypic evolution as an example for the broader challenge of developing a theory of theory integration within the life sciences and suggest a number of necessary formal steps toward the resolution of often incompatible (hidden) assumptions. Theory integration in biology requires a better formal understanding of the structure of biological theories The strategy for integrating theories crucially depends on the relationships of the underlying ontologies.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)5-14
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Experimental Zoology Part B: Molecular and Developmental Evolution
Volume330
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2018

Keywords

  • ontology
  • phenotypic evolution
  • theory integration

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
  • Molecular Medicine
  • Animal Science and Zoology
  • Genetics
  • Developmental Biology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Toward a mechanistic explanation of phenotypic evolution: The need for a theory of theory integration'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this