Artificial classification is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl ˌklæsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/. The word "artificial" is pronounced with stress on the second syllable (ar-ti-FI-cial) and the "i" is pronounced like "eye". "Classification" is also pronounced with stress on the second syllable (clas-si-fi-CA-tion) and the "s" in the first syllable is pronounced like a "z". This term refers to a categorization or organization that is created by humans rather than by natural means.
Artificial classification is a method of categorizing or grouping objects, organisms, or concepts based on selected characteristics or arbitrary criteria established by humans, rather than inherent natural relationships or similarities. The term "artificial" indicates that the classification system is intentionally designed by humans and may not reflect the true underlying connections or patterns existing in the subject matter being classified.
In an artificial classification, similarities or differences that are convenient to humans for organizational purposes are emphasized, while disregarding other potentially more biologically or logically relevant relationships. This classification method often involves intentionally ignoring or downplaying certain factors and considering only those traits or attributes considered important or useful by the classifier.
Artificial classifications can be found in various fields, such as biology, where taxonomists may group organisms together based on a specific physical characteristic or behavior, without considering their evolutionary relationships. Similarly, in other disciplines like psychology, artificial classifications may be used to group individuals based on observable behaviors or characteristics, even if those groupings do not fully encompass the complexity or diversity of the subject matter.
While artificial classifications can be practical and efficient for certain purposes, they may be challenged or refined as new insights, knowledge, or methodologies emerge. As our understanding of the natural world and human behavior evolves, artificial classifications are often revised or replaced by more comprehensive and scientifically grounded systems, which aim to capture the true, underlying relationships and classifications found in the subject matter.
The word "artificial" has its origins in Latin, derived from the word "artificium", which means skill or craftsmanship. It contains the root "arti-" meaning art, and "-fex" meaning maker or doer. "Artificial" refers to something that is created by human skill or ingenuity, rather than occurring naturally.
The word "classification" also stems from Latin. It comes from the word "classificare", which is a combination of "classis" (class) and "facere" (to make). "Classification" refers to the process of categorizing or organizing things into different classes or categories based on their similarities or shared characteristics.
So, in the term "artificial classification", both words combine to describe a system or method of organizing or categorizing something that is created by human skill or intervention rather than being naturally occurring or inherent.