This volume reviews the historical roots and theoretical foundations of
biological systematics in an approachable text. The author outlines the
structure and main tasks of systematics. Conceptual history is
characterized as a succession of scientific revolutions. The
philosophical foundations of systematic research are briefly reviewed as
well as the structure and content of taxonomic theories. Most important
research programs in systematics are outlined. The book includes
analysis of the principal problematic issues as "scientific puzzles" in
systematics. This volume is intended for professional taxonomists,
biologists of various specialties, students, as well as all those
interested in the history and theory of biology and natural sciences.
Key Features
- Considers the conceptual history of systematics as the framework of
evolutionary epistemology
- Builds a hierarchically organized quasi-axiomatic system of taxonomic
theory
- Contends that more reductionist taxonomic concepts are less objective
- Supports taxonomic pluralism by non-classic philosophy of science as a
normal condition of systematics
- Documents that "taxonomic puzzles" result from conflict between
monistic and pluralistic attitudes
Related Titles
de Queiroz, K. et al., eds. Phylonyms: A Companion to the PhyloCode
(ISBN 978-1-1383-3293-5)
Sigwart, J. D. What Species Mean: A User's Guide to the Units of
Biodiversity (ISBN 978-1-4987-9937-9)
Rieppel, O. Phylogenetic Systematics: Haeckel to Hennig (ISBN
978-1-4987-5488-0)
Wilkins, J. S. Species: The Evolution of the Idea, 2nd ed. (ISBN
978-1-1380-5574-2)
