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Nature and natural classification

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Abstract

The contribution ofJohn Gilmour to the philosophy of taxonomy, particularly regarding the concept of natural classification, is discussed. The use of the term by the main schools of taxonomy—phenetic, evolutionary and cladistic—is discussed. It is suggested that classification should be related to the way in which the human brain perceives pattern in nature, and recent developments in optical components, neural computers and random problem solving are considered.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, 53, The Green, Kew, TW9 3AA, Richmond, Surrey, UK

    V. H. Heywood

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  1. V. H. Heywood
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Dedicated to the memory of JohnS. L. Gilmour.

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Heywood, V.H. Nature and natural classification. Pl Syst Evol 167, 87–92 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00936550

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00936550

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