Unsimple truths: How biological complexity changes our view of nature and science

Complex systems are built from simpler components: organisms from cells, cells from proteins, and proteins from amino acids. A common, and often successful scientific strategy is to explain a system by first explaining its parts in isolation. Is this always the best approach? Sandra D. Mitchell (University of Pittsburgh) will explore the ways complex systems in biology emerge from their parts, and the role that both historical contingency and dynamic adaptation play in reshaping our understanding of scientific explanation in the life sciences. About the speaker Sandra D. Mitchell has been Professor of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Pittsburgh since 2000. Her interests have centred on scientific explanations of complex behaviour, and how we might best represent multi-level, multi-component complex systems. Guest Curator This event is part of a series of talks exploring the philosophy of biological complexity, curated by Michela Massimi. She is an expert in Kant, and the intersection between contemporary philosophical problems and scientific practice. Please note that each event is stand-alone so you can attend as many as you wish.

Suitable for
18+
16-17


Website
http://rigb.org/whats-on/events-2014/june/public-unsimple-truths-how-biological-complexity

Admission
£12 Standard £8 Concession £6 Associate member Free to Ri members and fellows

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk//am23223?id=EVENT479169