Abstract
Zygon has been discussing the implications of sociobiology for twenty‐five years, ever since E. O. Wilson's book by that name first burst upon the stage. In the course of that discussion there have been many heated exchanges, but in this journal, at least, the heat has also generated light. Thus it is now timely and useful to review and consolidate Zygon's approach to the sociobiology construct, not only as it was originally presented but as it has changed over time. The goal of this article is to recapitulate and summarize the dialogue that has taken place here. But my aim is not merely to rehash the discussion; it is more precisely to extend and continue it. Specific proposals are offered that are designed to ground future conversations on the solid foundation that has been established over the last quarter century.
Keywords
E. O. Wilson, sociobiology, evolutionary epistemology, Zygon, theological anthropology, reductionism, emergence, behavioral ecology, psychobiology
How to Cite
Cavanaugh, M., (2000) “A Retrospective on Sociobiology”, Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science 35(4), 813–826. doi: https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-9744.00314