ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses teleological functions in the theory of evolution by natural selection. To argue that the Darwinian theory renders any reference to an intelligent agent superfluous to the explanation of the organic world does not end the debate on teleological functions. Opinions differ over whether any legitimate role is left for a naturalistic account of purposive and normative biological functions. The chapter suggests that Darwinian theory does not offer a naturalistic account for teleological functions in biology, but it does provide a means to stop thinking about the organic world in teleological terms.
