The changing concept of the gene: Recurring scientific and philosophical debates on the causal role of genes

Although genes were long disregarded in both the classical biological field of "developmental mechanics" (experimental embryology) and evolutionary studies, the gene concept proved to be the most powerful idea in 20th century biology. Yet, even as the study of genes became approachable at the molecular level, they were (and remain) frequently misinterpreted. A review of the history of the "gene" in biological research reveals an interesting complexity of concept and conceptual change, scientific reality, and non-scientific myths.

In 21st century biological research, the rise of Systems Biology and new discussions on epigenetic modifications in the popular and technical press may have served to diminish the primacy of genes in biological systems. However, bio-scientists from various fields emphasize the importance of genes in biological control systems and point to the increasing evidence that epigenetic modification always follows specific DNA-protein interaction by transcription factors. Moreover, DNA sequencing is being increasingly used as a tool in historical studies, including in evolutionary studies on human populations and other ancient species.

With participants coming from a variety of specialties, such as molecular biology, developmental genetics, history of science, and philosophy, the Workshop aims at generating an intellectual discussion about the fertility, neglect, under- and overestimation of the concept of genetic causality in complex organisms.