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Conceptualizing the (Dis)unity of Science∗

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2022

Todd A. Grantham
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Abstract

This paper argues that conceptualizing unity as “interconnection” (rather than reduction) provides a more fruitful and versatile framework for the philosophical study of scientific unification. Building on the work of Darden and Maull, Kitcher, and Kincaid, I treat unity as a relationship between fields: two fields become more integrated as the number and/or significance of interfield connections grow. Even when reduction fails, two theories or fields can be unified (integrated) in significant ways. I highlight two largely independent dimensions of unification. Fields are theoretically unified to the extent that we understand how the ontologies, concepts, and generalizations of these fields are connected. (Reductionism is one form of theoretical unity, but not the only form). Fields are practically unified through heuristic connections (e.g., using the heuristics of one field to generate hypotheses in another field) and by the development of methods for integrating the qualitatively distinct bodies of data generated by the two fields. I discuss the relationship between paleontological and neontological systematics to illustrate the utility of conceptualizing unity as interconnection.

Type
Research Article
Information
Philosophy of Science , Volume 71 , Issue 2 , April 2004 , pp. 133 - 155
Copyright
Copyright © The Philosophy of Science Association

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Footnotes

‡

I began this project while working at the University of Chicago, with the support of the National Science Foundation (SES-9818379). This paper was subsequently revised while on sabbatical from the College of Charleston and was presented at Northwestern University, DePauw University, and the International Society for the History, Philosophy, and Social Studies of Biology 2001 biennial meeting. The questions and comments from these audiences led to major improvements. Comments from Lindley Darden and two anonymous referees led to further improvements. Thanks to all.

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