Introduction. Evolutionary Megaparadigms: Potential, Problems, Perspectives.

P. 5–29.

Grinin L. E., Korotayev A., Robert L. C., Fred S.

The formulation of the first scientific theories of the evolution of nature began at least two centuries ago. However, the philosophical roots of evolutionary ideas are much older (see, e.g., Vorontsov 1999; Asmus 2001; Chanyshev 1976, 2001; Barg 1987; Ilyushechkin 1996; Losev 1977; Nisbet 1980). An incipient understanding of the historical dimension of natural processes can already be found among the ancient Greeks (e.g., Heraclitus, Anaximander, Empedocles, etc.). In the late Modern period these ideas strengthened in conjunction with the idea that historical changes in nature can be described with the aid of rigorous laws. This type of thinking created the evolutionary approach in science. However, these ideas penetrated rather slowly in various branches of science. Nevertheless, supported by a growing body of firm evidence, the evolutionary approach became gradually established during this period in geology, cosmology, biology and social sciences.

Keywords: social systems, potential, Biological, Evolutionary Megaparadigms, The Principles of Psychology, The Principles of Biology, The Principles of Sociology, problems

In book

Evolution: Cosmic, Biological, and Social

Volgograd: Uchitel, 2011.