The Logical Structure of Organic Chemistry and the Empirical Adequacy of the Classical Concept of the Molecule

Organic chemistry is based on the classical concept of the molecule, which postulates that molecules have distinct physical shapes, sizes, structures, and are composed of atoms and chemical bonds. Although this concept is not consistent in some respects with what is suggested by quantum mechanics, it reveals a novel property of molecules: molecules are designable. Thanks to this property we can synthesize chemical compounds as we desire with precise control of molecular transformations. Organic synthesis, especially the highly selective synthesis of chiral substances, demonstrates that this concept is empirically adequate. It is also shown that organic chemistry is rational and autonomous as a science with regard to the Method of Analysis and Synthesis.