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Article
Literary study and evolutionary theory
Human Nature (1998)
  • Joseph Carroll, University of Missouri–St. Louis
Abstract
Several recent books have claimed to integrate literary study with evolutionary biology. All of the books here considered, except Robert Storey’s, adopt conceptions of evolutionary theory that are in some way marginal to the Darwinian adaptationist program. All the works attempt to connect evolutionary study with various other disciplines or methodologies: for example, with cultural anthropology, cognitive psychology, the psychology of emotion, neurobiology, chaos theory, or structuralist linguistics. No empirical paradigm has yet been established for this field, but important steps have been taken, especially by Storey, in formulating basic principles, identifying appropriate disciplinary connections, and marking out lines of inquiry. Reciprocal efforts are needed from biologists and social scientists.
Publication Date
September 1, 1998
DOI
10.1007/s12110-998-1006-1
Citation Information
Joseph Carroll. "Literary study and evolutionary theory" Human Nature Vol. 9 Iss. 3 (1998) p. 273 - 292
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/joseph-carroll/46/