Work-in-progress talk, attempting to sketch a connection between present dynamic systems theory, emergent properties, and the history of scientific explanations.

In particular, I examine 18th century mechanics, and argue that Euler's Mechanica represents the emergence of a new discipline (mechanics), whereas Newton was still operating in an interdisciplinary way (natural philosophy).  Both phases ought to be considered integral to the history of the Scientific Revolution.

In general, the transition from interdisciplinarity to the emergence of a new discipline seems a useful motif for a diachronic philosophy of scientific explanation.