From Darwinian metaphysics towards understanding the evolution of evolutionary mechanisms

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Charles Darwin predicted that his theory would invigorate metaphysics, and the diverse paths it has taken since would likely astonish him. This includes gene-Darwinism, which applies a Darwinian lens to social sciences, and process-Darwinism, influencing psychology, philosophy of science, and economics. While often associated with solid biological theories, some interpretations of Darwinism rely on tautological claims, where scientific credibility masks ideological use. The discussion encompasses key Darwinian principles historically and systematically, such as the evolution of different paradigms, the units-of-selection debate, and the philosophical problem of induction underpinning metaphysical Darwinism. A central focus is the assertion that evolution is driven by a harsh, unchanging law of natural selection, revealing a paradox: Darwin’s theory is a static, non-evolutionary framework for evolution. The text outlines the historical context and proposes a shift towards understanding the evolution of evolutionary mechanisms. This perspective suggests a movement beyond the limitations of early Darwinian processes, allowing for some autonomy from environmental constraints. The book develops a radical Darwinian approach, critiques it from within, and, while addressing various empirical issues, does not contest specific findings. Instead, it builds on Darwinian insights to propose a new interpretation of existing empirical eviden