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A History of High-Order Taxonomy
The history of taxonomy stretches back to the 4th century BC, to the times of Aristotle and before. Since the first classification systems emerged, dividing the world of life into various groups with various relationships, scientists have grappled with the task of keeping classification in sync with scientific evidence.

How Science Shapes Taxonomy
Biological classification is in a continual state of flux. As our knowledge of organisms expands, we gain a better understanding of the similarities and differences among various groups of organisms.

Terminology and Classification Systems
To best understand the science of classification, it will help to first examine a few basic terms.

The History of Scientific Classification
For centuries, the naming and classification of living organisms into groups has been an integral part of the study of nature.