Abstract

In order to contextualize the subjects the contributors discussed in the workshop by giving them some backgrounds, first (§1) I will relate how the relationship between biology and physics has been dealt with in the philosophy of biology so far, intending to make a connection with Mr. Morimoto's argument. Then (§2) I will provide some historical background on how such concepts considerably, if not exclusively, distinctive of biology as 'function', 'purpose', or 'design' have been the targets for philosophical considerations so far, building a connection to Mr. Otsuka's argument. Finally (§3) I will present my little analysis of the problem of the scientific status of some 'historical sciences' Mr. Minaka is concerned with from a somewhat different angle from his.