一般选择效果功能理论的困境及其解决

The Generalized Selected Effects Theory of Function:Its Dilemma and Solution

为了实现选择功能对发育功能现象的解释,参照选择功能的解释策略,一般选择效果功能理论认为凡是能产生差别繁殖特征或差别维系特征的选择过程都能赋予生物性状功能。上述两个特征分别由进化时间范畴和发育时间范畴决定,意指同一生物种群中的一些实体因其自身特点比其他实体具有更高的繁殖/生存可能性。其中,差别维系特征既是该理论的创新点,也是其非历史解释困境的来源。对此,文章的解决方案如下:依托于布沙德的生物功能多元论,消解困境。参照沃尔什的关系性生物功能理论,转向更简洁的新关系性生物功能理论。

According to the generalized selected effects theory of function,a function of a trait ought to be bestowed with selective processes which led to differential reproduction or differential persistence by appealing to the interpretation strategy of SE.In this case,the developmental function will be explicated in the light of SE.Differential reproduction and differential persistence are determined by evolutionary time scale and developmental time scale respectively.They refer to several entities which have more chance to reproduce or survive than other less effective entities within a population by virtue of their properties.As the innovation of the theory,differential persistence is the source of the theory’s dilemma as well.In this article,Bouchard’s pluralism of biological functions will be introduced to let the generalized selected effects theory of function off the hook.Further,according to the relational theory of biological function by Walsh,the final solution will be the new relational theory of biological function.