Reductive Explanation in the Biological Sciences

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The book presents a philosophical framework for understanding reductive explanations in the life sciences, distinguishing them from non-reductive ones. It identifies three key characteristics: a critical reconstruction of life science practices, a monistic approach with universal criteria, and an ontic perspective focusing on real-world relations rather than logical ones. The author explores the meta-philosophical assumptions underpinning this analysis, engages with existing debates in the philosophy of biology, and examines concepts like biological parts and levels of organization, culminating in a comprehensive ontic account of reductive explanation.