Inceptions of Biomathematics from Lotka to Thom. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Den Berg, Hugo A.
• Is Part Of: Science progress. Volume 100:Number 1(2017)
• Page Start: 45
• Page End: 62
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: biomathematics -- history of science -- thermodynamics -- evolution -- homeostasis -- morphogenesis -- catastrophe theory; Science -- Periodicals; Research; Science; Science; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodicals; 505
• DOI: 10.3184/003685017X14858831042682
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0036-8504

Abstract

Mathematical biology occupies a special place at the interface between the physical, mathematical and life sciences. Is this interface merely a meeting point for dabblers venturing out of their own proper domains to work on problems of mutual interest? Or is it an incipient science in its own right, with its own particular character, principles, and practices? The past century has seen vast advances in the application of mathematical and physical ideas and techniques to biological problems, in the process transforming many of them almost beyond recognition. Nonetheless, the question of a biomathematics as a new kind of science remains open, despite several fascinating, if sometimes problematic, attempts.