Abstract
It is anthropomorphic to speak of Nature designing adaptations for a specific function, as if with conscious intent. Any effect constitutes an adaptive function if it contributes to survival and to reproduction. Natural selection is blind to what might have been the original function. Mutations arise by purest accident and are selected based on whatever fortuitous effects they might produce.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 517-518 |
Number of pages | 2 |
Journal | Behavioral and Brain Sciences |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs |
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State | Published - Aug 2002 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
- Physiology
- Behavioral Neuroscience