Table 4 The main features of selection and design teleology
Types of teleology | Consequence etiology | Assumption of design | Legitimate for artifacts or organisms | Example of misconception | Example of correct conception |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Design teleology (external) | Something exists because of its consequences that contribute to the fulfillment of an external agent’s intention to achieve a goal | Yes | Artifacts only | Eagles have wings in order to fly because God/Nature designed them in such a way in order to be able to use them for flying | Airplanes have wings in order to fly because humans designed them in such a way so as to be able to use them for flying |
Design teleology (internal) | Something exists because of its consequences that contribute to the fulfillment of its possessor’s intention to achieve a goal | Yes | Neither artifacts, nor organisms | Eagles have wings in order to fly because they needed them in order to be able to use them for flying | – |
Selection teleology | Something exists because of its consequences that contribute to the well-being of its possessor | No | Organisms only | – | Eagles have wings in order to fly because this feature appeared in their ancestors, provided them with an advantage and was therefore maintained in their lineage by natural selection |