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A Generalized Selected Effects Theory of Function

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2022

Justin Garson
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Abstract

I present and defend the generalized selected effects (GSE) theory of function. According to GSE, the function of a trait consists in the activity that contributed to its bearer’s differential reproduction, or differential retention, within a population. Unlike the traditional selected effects (SE) theory, it does not require that the functional trait helped its bearer reproduce; differential retention is enough. Although the core theory has been presented previously, I go significantly beyond those presentations by providing a new argument for GSE and defending it from a recent objection. I also sketch its implications for teleosemantics and philosophy of medicine.

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Research Article
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Philosophy of Science , Volume 84 , Issue 3 , July 2017 , pp. 523 - 543
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Copyright © The Philosophy of Science Association

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