The Philosophical Implications of Evolutionary Biology

Abstract

'The Philosophical Implications of Evolutionary Biology' is a philosophical enquiry written in dialogue form which asks the question 'how does modern evolutionary theory affect our notions of self and freewill?' The enquiry begins by examining the process of decision making, followed by an evolutionary explanation of how and why we make decisions. With this knowledge a theoretical value system is created which cumulatively describes the source of the perception of quality and the orientation of all human thought and behaviour. In conclusion a logical deadlock is reached: it becomes evident that our values are dictated by our evolutionary past, that we are trapped within this value system, and that even if we attempt to break free from it we inevitably fail because everything we do, even if it is designed to go directly against the system, is still inescapably directed by it.