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A co-constitutive analysis of individuation: three case studies from the biological sciences.

Authors :
McConwell, Alison K.
Source :
Biology & Philosophy. Oct2024, Vol. 39 Issue 5, p1-24. 24p.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

This paper argues that individuating practices are produced through iterative processes of community and agent-level interactions. This claim will be demonstrated by using three case studies from biology: The structuring of data categories for data collection tables and models; establishing spatial and temporal threshold markers or limits; and the comparative use of phenomenal characteristics as cues for object identification. By drawing from examples of data classification and comparative analysis in the biological sciences, I offer a view about ‘individuation’ as double-barreled according to the method of co-constitutive conceptual analysis. Specifically, the capacity—i.e., the ability to individuate—is co-constituted by community level choices and agent applications: Individuation’s evidential role is generated, revised, and refined by scientific communities and their members through an iterative process of community and agent-level interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
01693867
Volume :
39
Issue :
5
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Biology & Philosophy
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
179778779
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10539-024-09948-y