Bernd Rosslenhroich: On the Origin of Autonomy: A New Look at the Major Transitions in Evolution

摘要

Is evolution progressive, leading to greater complexity? Are we humans, as one of its latest products, more autonomous, free and independent of environmental influences? These questions are contentious and could imply that we humans are more complex and progressive than our ancestors, and maybe we feel nervous about designating ourselves as superior or exceptional. Nevertheless, we seem unable to live either with or without the idea of progress. Perhaps more contentious is the notion that if evolution is progressive, then it might have a direction, teleological goal or outcome. These perennial evolutionary and philosophical questions are well-suited to Springer's series History, Philosophy and Theory of the Life Sciences in which this book On the Origin of Autonomy by Bernd Rosslenbroich is the 5th contribution.