Biological Systematics: History and Theory

This volume reviews the historical roots and theoretical foundations of biological systematics, outlining the structure and main tasks of systematics, the philosophical foundations of systematic research, and the principal problematic issues as scientific puzzles. It is intended for professional taxonomists, biologists, students, and all those interested in the history and theory of biology and natural sciences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the historical roots and theoretical foundations of biological systematics, presenting the subject matter in an accessible and engaging manner. The author begins by outlining the structure and primary objectives of systematics, emphasizing its role as a branch of biology that seeks to understand the relationships and evolutionary history of living organisms.

Conceptual history is portrayed as a series of scientific revolutions, each contributing to the development of the field. The philosophical underpinnings of systematic research are briefly explored, including the development of taxonomic theories and the principles guiding their construction.

The book then presents a comprehensive overview of the most significant research programs in systematics, highlighting the key questions and challenges that have been addressed by scholars in the field. These research programs cover a wide range of topics, from the classification of species to the study of biodiversity and evolutionary processes.

In addition to its theoretical and analytical content, the book includes an analysis of the principal problematic issues that arise in systematics. These issues are presented as scientific puzzles, requiring careful consideration and resolution. The author argues that these puzzles result from the conflict between monistic and pluralistic attitudes towards the nature of reality, and proposes a non-classic philosophy of science as a means of reconciling these competing perspectives.

This volume is intended for professional taxonomists, biologists of various specialties, students, and anyone with an interest in the history and theory of biology and natural sciences. It provides a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of systematics and its role in advancing our knowledge of the living world.

Several related titles can be recommended to further explore the topics covered in this volume. These include:

de Queiroz, K., et al. (eds.) Phylonyms: A Companion to the PhyloCode. ISBN 978-1-1383-3293-5.

Sigwart, J. D. (2014). What Species Mean: A User's Guide to the Units of Biodiversity. ISBN 978-1-4987-9937-9.

Rieppel, O. (2012). Phylogenetic Systematics: Haeckel to Hennig. ISBN 978-1-4987-5488-0.

Wilkins, J. S. (2006). Species: The Evolution of the Idea, 2nd ed. ISBN 978-1-1380-5574-2.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367671945