The Paradox of the Organism: Adaptation and Internal Conflict

In this dense volume, biologists Ågren (The Gene’s-Eye View of Evolution) and Patten gather perspectives from scientists and philosophers on the conflicts that occur within organisms. Though generally seen as a unified being, a multicellular organism can contain parts that are at odds with one another, the contributors explain, like cancer cells or “selfish” genes that pursue their own proliferation despite undermining the organism as a whole. In one entry, an evolutionary biologist argues that “conflict” between levels of an organism should be understood metaphorically and that selfish parts, like cancer, should be viewed as separate from the organism and its interests. Elsewhere, two philosophers link the organism paradox to an ancient Greek paradox of change, wrestling with the question of whether an organism can be considered the same organism even as its components change over time. In the final section, scholars present practical uses for analyzing organisms through the lens of conflict. Understanding the competing interests between parent and offspring during pregnancy, for example, can help doctors manage complications like preeclampsia. Though the topics presented throughout are intriguing, the chapters are steeped in jargon. This is best suited for those well-versed in biology and philosophy. (Dec.)