Biology, Philosophy Of

philosophy of biology, philosophical speculation about the concepts, methods, and theories of the biological sciences.

The sharp increase in understanding of biological processes that has occurred since the mid-20th century has stimulated philosophical interest in biology to an extent unprecedented since the first formulation of evolutionary theory in the 1850s. Most of the problems of contemporary philosophy of biology are traditional questions now being investigated afresh in the light of scientific advances, particularly in molecular genetics, and new standards of philosophical rigour.

This article discusses the chief topics in the philosophy of biology as well as recent developments in ancillary and related fields. For detailed treatment of ethical issues relating to the biological sciences, the natural environment, and health care, see bioethics. For discussion of philosophical criticisms of evolutionary theory inspired by religion, see evolution.