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Extended Phenotypes and Extended Organisms

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Abstract

Phenotype, whether conventional or extended, is defined as a reflectionof an underlying genotype. Adaptation and the natural selection thatfollows from it depends upon a progressively harmonious fit betweenphenotype and environment. There is in Richard Dawkins' notion ofthe extended phenotype a paradox that seems to undercut conventionalviews of adaptation, natural selection and adaptation. In a nutshell, ifthe phenotype includes an organism's environment, how then can theorganism adapt to itself? The paradox is resolvable through aphysiological, as opposed to a genetic, theory of natural selection andadaptation.

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  1. Department of Environmental & Forest Biology, SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry, 1 Forestry Place, Syracuse, New York, 13210, USA

    J. Scott Turner

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  1. J. Scott Turner
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Turner, J.S. Extended Phenotypes and Extended Organisms. Biology & Philosophy 19, 327–352 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1023/B:BIPH.0000036115.65522.a1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/B:BIPH.0000036115.65522.a1

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