On reciprocal causation in the evolutionary process

摘要: Recent calls for a revision the standard evolutionary theory (ST) are based on arguments about reciprocal causation of phenomena. Reciprocal means that cause-effect relationships obscured, as cause could later become an effect and vice versa. Such dynamic raises questions distinction between proximate ultimate causes, originally formulated by Ernst Mayr. They have also motivated some biologists philosophers to argue Extended Evolutionary Synthesis (EES). EES will supposedly replace Modern (MS), with its claimed focus unidirectional causation. I critically examine this conjecture proponents EES, conclude, contrary, has long been recognized important in ST MS tradition. Numerous empirical examples form positive negative feedbacks now exists from both natural laboratory systems. explicitly incorporated mathematical models coevolutionary arms races, frequency-dependent selection sexual selection. were already Richard Levins Lewontin, before call associated concept niche construction. is therefore one few contributions dialectical thinking Marxist philosophy theory, should be such. While helped us understand many processes, caution against extension heredity directed development if such involves futile attempts restore Lamarckian or soft inheritance.