Biology’s transformation: from observation through experiment to computation

TL;DR

The paper discusses how biology is shifting from experimental to computational methods, but lacks a unified theoretical framework.

Contribution

The paper proposes that global challenges could drive the development of a new theoretical foundation for biology.

Findings

Biology is undergoing a computational transformation, driven by data analytics and simulations.

A unified theoretical framework for biology remains absent despite advances in computation.

Global challenges may catalyze the development of new theoretical foundations in life sciences.

Abstract

We explore the nuanced temporal and epistemological distinctions among natural sciences, particularly the contrasting treatment of time and the interplay between theory and experimentation. Physics, an exemplar of mature science, relies on theoretical models for predictability and simulations. In contrast, biology, traditionally experimental, is witnessing a computational surge, with data analytics and simulations reshaping its research paradigms. Despite these strides, a unified theoretical framework in biology remains elusive. We propose that contemporary global challenges might usher in a renewed emphasis, presenting an opportunity for the establishment of a novel theoretical underpinning for the life sciences.

https://github.com/ouzounis/CLS-emerges Data in Json format, Images in PNG format.

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