Edmond Goblot’s (1858–1935) Selected Effects Theory of Function: A Reappraisal

At the beginning of twentieth century, French philosopher science Edmond Goblot wrote three prescient papers on function and teleology. He advanced remarkable thesis that functions are, as a matter conceptual analysis, selected effects. also argued “selection” must be understood broadly to include both evolutionary natural selection intelligent design. Here, I do things. First, give an overview Goblot’s thought. Second, identify his core about function. Third, argue that, despite its ingenuity, expansive construal cannot right. Still, deserves long-overdue credit for work.