The Poverty of the Linnaean Hierarchy: A Philosophical Study of Biological Taxonomy

ISBN-13: 9780521781701 / Angielski / Twarda / 2000 / 328 str.

Marc Ereshefsky (University of Calgary)

Opis

The question of whether biologists should continue to use the Linnaean hierarchy is a hotly debated issue. Invented before the introduction of evolutionary theory, Linnaeus' system of classifying organisms is based on outdated theoretical assumptions, and is thought to be unable to provide accurate biological classifications. Ereshefsky argues that biologists should abandon the Linnaean system and adopt an alternative that is more in line with evolutionary theory. He illustrates how the continued use of this system hampers our ability to classify the organic world, and then goes on to make specific recommendations for a post-Linnaean method of classification.

Recenzje

'Ereshefsky addresses a variety of controversial topics. Therefore, his book is recommendable for everyone interested in critical discussions of biological systematics.' Anthropologischer Anzeiger

Spis treści

Preface; Introduction; Part I. The Historical Turn: 1. The philosophy of classification; 2. A primer of biological taxonomy; 3. History and classification; Part II. The Multiplicity of Nature: 4. Species pluralism; 5. How to be a discerning pluralist; Part III. Hierarchies and Nomenclature: 6. The evolution of the Linnaean hierarchy; 7. Post-Linnaean taxonomy; 8. The future of biological nomenclature; Notes; References; Index.