Hidden Roots of Classification

Abstract

Points out that a twofold infinity characterises the design of classification the infinity in the diverse purposes of the readers and that in the dimensions of the universe of subjects. Illustrates the risk in basing the design of classification on conjecture and suggests basing it on the results of a sound statistical study. With the aid of the analogy of roots of flames shows an alternative helpful method to be basing classification on postulates and principles inherent in the near-seminal level. Describes with illustrations a set of postulates and principles. Points out that classification is equivalent to mapping the multi-dimensional universe of subjects along a single dimension and that the crucial problem in such a mapping is, determining which of the many immediate neighbourhood relations among facets to the Basic Subject, should be kept invariant. The Wall-PicturePrinciple is shown to give the best result in this matter. This Principle fixes the syntactical relations among facets. Raises the issue whether there is an Absolute Syntax, and whether the syntax of facets implied in the Wall Picture Principle is equivalent to it. Suggests the investigation of this problem by a team of Linguists, Psychologists, Classificationists, Reference Librarians, and Statisticians.