Natural and artificial library classifications represent two distinct approaches to organizing information, each serving unique purposes in different contexts. Natural classification, grounded in the inherent relationships and characteristics of the subjects or entities being classified, aims to reflect the true affinities and evolutionary connections within a system. This approach aligns with the natural order of things and is often employed in biology and taxonomy. On the other hand, artificial library classification involves a systematic and intentional arrangement of information based on predetermined principles, categories, or codes. Typically applied in libraries and information management systems, this method prioritizes practicality and accessibility, allowing for efficient retrieval and organization of resources. Both natural and artificial classification systems play vital roles in facilitating the understanding, retrieval, and utilization of information, albeit in different domains and with distinct methodologies.
1.1 Natural Library Classification:
Natural library classification is a classification system that arranges books and other library materials based on their subject matter, emphasizing their natural relationships or similarities. In a natural library classification system, materials on related topics are grouped together based on their common features and shared evolutionary history.
This classification system is often used in scientific or academic libraries, where materials may be organized based on their field of study or subject area. For example, books on biology, botany, and zoology may be grouped together under the broad subject category of “life sciences,” reflecting their common focus on the study of living organisms.
Natural library classification systems are designed to reflect the natural relationships between different subject areas, making it easier for users to navigate the library and find the materials they need. This approach is considered more meaningful and useful than artificial classification systems, which group materials based on arbitrary criteria such as their physical appearance or publication date.
1.2 Artificial Library Classification:
An artificial library classification system groups books and other library materials based on arbitrary criteria such as format, publication date, or physical characteristics. Unlike natural classification systems, which group materials based on their natural relationships or similarities, artificial classification systems are often designed to serve specific practical purposes or meet the needs of a particular library or user group.
One example of an artificial library classification system is the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), which assigns a unique numeric code to each book based on its subject matter. The DDC system groups materials into ten broad subject categories, such as philosophy, history, and science, with each category subdivided into more specific topics.
Another example of an artificial library classification system is the Library of Congress Classification (LCC), which also assigns a unique code to each book based on its subject matter. The LCC system groups materials into twenty-one broad subject categories, such as law, literature, and religion, with each category subdivided into more specific topics.
Artificial library classification systems have the advantage of being highly structured and consistent, making it easy for librarians and users to locate specific materials. However, they can also be less flexible and may not reflect the true relationships between different subject areas or topics.
1.3 Difference between Natural classification and Artificial Library Classification:
| Natural Classification | Artificial Classification |
| 1. Classification based on important points of similarity. | Classification according to some unimportant or less important points of resemblance. |
| 2. It is the grouping of the thesis according to nature’s plan and order. | Grouping of things according to the purpose of the individual concerned. |
| 3. It is an objective classification. | It is a subjective classification. |
| 4. It is for general purposes. | It is a subjective purpose. |
| 5. Natural classification is a language of ideas, minds, and thoughts. | Book classification is a language of ordinary numbers. |
| 6. It is expressed through methods of expression, not merely through words. | It is expressed through words, figure language, and cyber language. |
| 7. It is designed for extensive thoughts and knowledge. | It is designed for the specific purpose of mechanizing arrangement. |
3 Comments
It’s a good guide to library classification research I appreciate thanks alot.
thank you.
But this is complete nonsense. The DDC and LCC groups materials by subject, so these are not artificial classification systems. On the other hand, all library classification systems are actually artificial because a code is always given to arrange materials. If these so-called artificial classification systems group materials by subject and therefore content, these are inherent relationships and therefore a natural classification.