Argues that ontogenetic and phylogenetic theories are related and that such a coupling can be established only in reference to a metatheory. The metatheory is construed in terms of a combination of logical coherence and requirements necessary for generalization as well as comprehensive, philosophical representations of living beings (e.g.,…

Discusses ontogeny and phylogeny in Piaget's work, differences between Piagetian (constructivist) and Darwinian (selectionist) approaches, and problems associated with transposing conceptual systems from one field to another. (RH)

Comments on an earlier paper by Lerner and von Eye on sociobiology and human development; general theory in science, especially evolutionary theory; adaptation and behavior plasticity; and modern behavior genetics. Examines assertion that "heritability says nothing about the extent to which a trait is commonly inherited." Discusses…