teleonomía

Teleonomy refers to the apparent purposefulness or goal-directedness observed in biological systems, often attributed to the effects of natural selection. It is a concept used to explain how organisms possess structures and behaviors that seem designed to achieve specific functions, such as survival, reproduction, or adaptation to their environment. Unlike teleology, which implies conscious intent or a predetermined destiny, teleonomy suggests that these "purposes" are emergent properties arising from evolutionary processes over long periods.

The term was introduced by Ashley Montagu in the 1950s and later popularized by Jacques Monod. Monod argued that biological phenomena are teleonomic rather than teleological. He distinguished between the inherent "chance" of molecular evolution and the "necessity" of natural selection, which filters advantageous variations and leads to the appearance of design. For example, the intricate structure of an eye can be understood teleonomically as a complex adaptation that enhances an organism's ability to perceive its surroundings, thus increasing its chances of survival and reproduction, rather than being the result of an intentional design.

Teleonomy helps to reconcile the apparent purposeful nature of life with a non-teleological, mechanistic understanding of biological processes. It emphasizes that biological functions are products of evolutionary history and the selective pressures encountered by organisms. This perspective allows scientists to study and understand biological mechanisms without resorting to supernatural explanations or attributing consciousness to non-conscious entities.