Slime Mould and Philosophy

Physarum polycephalum, a unicellular organism has gained attention as a model for studying cognitive abilities in organisms lacking nervous systems. This Element aims to demonstrate how Physarum can enrich the philosophy of biology by challenging conventional biological theories and refining key concepts through its behaviors and capabilities.

List of contents

1 Introduction; 2. Niche construction and complex life cycles; 3. On the biotic status of spores; 4. Biological individuals: a puzzle concerning plasmodial fragmenting and fusing; 5. Externalised spatial memory?; 6. Conclusion; References.

Summary

Physarum polycephalum, a unicellular organism has gained attention as a model for studying cognitive abilities in organisms lacking nervous systems. This Element aims to demonstrate how Physarum can enrich the philosophy of biology by challenging conventional biological theories and refining key concepts through its behaviors and capabilities.

Product details

• Authors: Matthew Sims, Matthew (Ruhr-Universitat Bochum) Sims
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press ELT
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 31.01.2025
• EAN: 9781009488617
• ISBN: 978-1-0-0948861-7
• No. of pages: 92
• Series: Elements in the Philosophy of Biology
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Philosophy; Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Natural sciences (general); Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Philosophy: general, reference works; PHILOSOPHY / General, Microbiology (non-medical), Philosophy of Science, molecular biology, Ecological science, the Biosphere, Botany & plant sciences, Plant biology