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Foundational issues concerning taxa and taxon names
1Department of Philosophy, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive, NW Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada. ereshefs@ucalgary.ca
Systematic Biology
|April 28, 2007
Summary
This study defends the individuality thesis and rigid designator theory in taxonomy against philosophical criticisms. It argues that these foundational concepts are sound and alternatives are problematic.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Science
- Systematic Biology
- Taxonomy
Background:
- Criticisms of the PhyloCode challenge its philosophical underpinnings.
- Opponents argue that taxa are not individuals and names are not rigid designators.
- Charges include essentialism, logical inconsistencies, and untestable proposals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To refute criticisms of the individuality thesis and rigid designator theory.
- To demonstrate the soundness of these concepts in biological classification.
- To evaluate and critique alternative taxonomic proposals.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical analysis of taxonomic theories.
- Critique of arguments against the individuality thesis and rigid designator theory.
- Examination of the distinction between kinds and individuals.
Main Results:
- Criticisms of the PhyloCode are based on misunderstandings of rigid designator theory.
- The charges of essentialism and logical inconsistency are unfounded.
- Proposed alternatives to the individuality thesis and rigid designator theory have significant flaws.
Conclusions:
- The individuality thesis and rigid designator theory remain robust foundations for taxonomy.
- These concepts should not be abandoned based on current criticisms.
- Further development of taxonomic philosophy should consider these established theories.
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