Abstract
AbstractThis paper proposes a new natural kinds framework according to whichkindhood is relational, dynamic, and scale-relative. Reflecting on the ontogenesis of a scientific classification, I argue that there are two distinct conceptual stages to a scientific classification: a first stage in which enough entities and relations must be authenticated for kindhood to emerge and a second in which the nature of authenticated entities and relations is investigated. The new framework is scale-relative and explains both the changing nature of the entities and relations themselves as well as the changing nature of the classifications in which they are organised.
Funder
H2020 European Research Council
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
General Social Sciences,Philosophy