Theory of classification and classification in libraries and archives : convergences and divergences
Knowledge Organization, 43 (7):
530--538 (November 2016)Abstract
Classification structures and systems are privileged resources for knowledge organization. Given this statement, the paper presented here refers to a study developed in the information representation and organization field, dedicated to the theory of classification, in general, and to the classification in libraries and archives, in particular. In this endeavor, we adopted an exploratory approach, performing a selective literature review of the subject, presenting and discussing theoretical and empirical considerations focused on backgrounds, influences, definitions, purposes, relevance, principles and characteristics of bibliographic and archives classifications, in order to identify points of convergence and/or divergence between them, thus contributing to a better understanding and application in a contemporary sense. Following this theoretical framework, we performed a comparative analysis of the relevant aspects of the mentioned classifications, having reached the following considerations: the two types of knowledge classifications considered have some points of convergence; in general aspects, regarding their backgrounds, influences, definitions, purposes and relevance; however, in what regards specific aspects, such as the principles that govern them and their characteristics, they show differences which, in our opinion, are caused mainly by the specific characteristics of their objects, as well as by the constraints of their own context.