Classification of psychopathology and unifying theory: The ingredients of a Darwinian paradigm shift in research methodology

摘要: The field of psychopathology needs a paradigm shift to revitalise its research methodology and translational practice. We describe Darwin?s transformation biology implications for science culture, we infer the an analogous approach psychopathology. Darwin challenged assumptions biological classification system with compelling evidence support quantifiable, mechanistic theory change across all life. Specifically, he showed that species were changeable, individuals substantial variation in their features, these features functional adaptations environment. Similarly, there is continuous change, shared symptoms functionality categories psychiatric classification. Our novel methodology, inspired by perceptual control theory, include both qualitative quantitative methods, entail study universal processes within heterogeneous samples studying dynamic prospectively individual cases, drawing direct analogies evolutionary systems (e.g. trade-offs, speciation).