The main objective of this Action is to gain a deeper understanding of human
categorisation as it is reflected in different types of classification systems. More
specifically, increased knowledge should be achieved concerning the following
aspects of classification systems:
(1) Types of classification systems and their main distinctive features
(2) Universal as well as culture/context dependent features of classification systems
(3) Domain specificity and internal domain structure
(4) The comparative development of classification systems
(5) The interrelation between stabilization and adaptative potential
(6) The relation between individual level and cultural level categories
Working towards this main objective, the Action aims to improve
interdisciplinary communication on the topic of classification systems. The main
focus will be on intensifying the dialogue between theory and description, making
easy to grasp information about new models and theories available.
A second focus will be on creating an exchange between researchers working on
different cultures and periods and establish a joint basis for communication in the
form of clear, compatible definitions and the clarification of terminologies. This will
bring a broader perspective to the researchers involved.
A third focus is to enhance the exploitation of new computer tools for data
collection and analysis by making information on these tools available to the network
and beyond, comparing their usefulness for certain purposes and increase the dialogue
between computer scientists and users from the humanities to cooperate in the
development oft software tools.
This interdisciplinary exchange between otherwise often isolated or loosely
connected scientific communities from different parts of Europe will substantially
improve the quality and effectiveness of researchers working on related topics.
Better knowledge about human categorization and classification systems is centrally
relevant in the wider social context of the information age. The mastering of
knowledge systems and understanding of knowledge representation is an essential
skill for obtaining information as well as for exploiting information in different
information systems. This can be seen in the Semantic Data Mining projects but also
in everyday tasks such as arranging products in a supermarket, automatic translation
or designing a Web Portal.
The understanding of stabilizing forces and adaptative mechanisms of classification
is a precondition for effectively dealing with the consequences of globalization.
Processes such as the integration of new EU countries and the harmonization and
standardisation of basic systems of society, e.g. educational systems, require an
unprecedented rapidity of adaptation of concepts and categories on an individual level
as well as in official classification systems. The intensive economic interaction
between Europe and Asia, for example, entails the integration of hardly compatible
management and computer systems from different countries or enterprises. The
obtained knowledge about factors facilitating or inhibiting changes in classification
systems will contribute to raising awareness of cognitive factors affecting culture
contact and global integration, and to design more adequate tools and policies.
