Abstract Despite the growing prevalence of network models in biological and medical research, the philosophical foundations of these constructs remain elusive and insufficiently examined. Building on data-driven insights in systems biology and teleological models of integrative physiology, we have criticised agentless theory, relational ontologies, and cybernetic perspectives in biological contexts. We have posited the necessity for a philosophical advocacy of a holistic approach to biology alongside a relational epistemology. A foundational issue in network models in biology and physiology is recognising the network as the predominant meme of contemporary society, which has permeated all aspects of human life and has been cultivated within biology and physiology through modern theoretical constructs and practical applications. By discussing minimal cognition, tinkering, and stigmergy, we argued for a philosophical advocacy of the person as a relational cybernetic organism. Philosophical arguments concerning graph and relational models in biology can be resolved by embracing epistemic humility.
Bondi et al. (2026) studied this question.