Biological Function without Natural Design
Copy For Citation
Sol A.
Springer-Verlag , Dordrecht, 2007
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Publication Type:
Book / Research Book
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Publication Date:
2007
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Publisher:
Springer-Verlag
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City:
Dordrecht
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Middle East Technical University Affiliated:
Yes
Abstract
In this essay, I argue that in
some special cases, artifacts and natural entities may have mere functions,
that is, functions without design. In such cases, such artifacts (and natural
entities) are intentionally used for
a purpose that determines their function. For instance, I use my TV remote
control as a paperweight, which becomes its function, though it is not designed
for this function. Then I argue that the idea of function without design (or
use function) has also significant implications regarding biological function,
for it becomes possible to establish biological function without appeal to
natural design. I also maintain that the attempts to account for natural design
on the basis of biological function, or arguing that they are coextensive is fruitless,
since the sole contribution of natural design can be its role in determining
biological function, as it is the only relation between artifact design and
function.