The Immune Self by Alfred I. Tauber
Theory or Metaphor?
This book critically examines the dominant self/nonself framework in immunology, arguing that immune identity is not a fixed, purely biological property but an emergent, interpretive process shaped by development, history, and organism–environment interactions. Through historical and philosophical analysis of immunological theory and practice, the author challenges reductionist accounts that portray the immune system solely as a defensive mechanism and instead emphasizes its roles in tolerance, regulation, and the construction of biological individuality. The work explores implications for understanding autoimmunity, disease, and scientific reasoning, advocating a more nuanced, relational view of immunity that integrates empirical findings with conceptual reflection.
- Published
- 1994
- Nationality
- American
- Length
- Unknown
- Pages
- Unknown
- Original Language
- English
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- Alternate Titles
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