Registration (was: TurboTaxonomy?)

[Richard Pyle]

> >At the core we find the names.  Then there is a layer for how those names
> >have historically been used.  Then there is a layer of opinions
> about which
> >of those name-usages represent the "current usage" in the eyes of some
> >authority.  Then there is a layer for how each name-usage maps
> to an actual
> >scope of organisms living, recently dead, and yet-to-be-born.
> Many things
> >to index.  In my view, only the first, core layer should be
> intertwined with
> >the Codes in the form of "Registration" -- but the registration system
> >should be designed such that it can easily serve as the kernel for the
> >higher layers of bio-nomenclatural indexing.
>
> One develops from the other, sometimes to such an extent that
> such concepts
> (those outside of the Codes) develop a life of their own and swamp the
> original principle. The scope of Codes of Nomenclature remains
> "nomenclature", which also extends to "registration" - in a pureply
> nomenclatural context. In contrast ITIS, Species 2000, GBIF want valid =
> correct = accepted names - which implies a taxonomic interpretation.

I absolutely agree! It appears as though we are both making the same point.
Code:Registration:names only.  My only point was that the registration
system should be designed (with appropriate GUID's, internet access
protocols, etc.) such that the registered nomenclature can serve as an
online electronic authority for the larger lists.

> Again, what the Bacteriological Code does - Wolfgang introduced the term
> "taxonomic status"  - this is not in the Bacteriological Code. Perhaps the
> "evil" aspect of "registration" stems from this type of misinterpretation,
> or is it wishful thinking!?

Jim Croft: Is this correct?  Can you clarify what aspect of "registration"
that you consider to be evil?

Aloha,
Rich

Richard L. Pyle, PhD
Natural Sciences Database Coordinator, Bishop Museum
1525 Bernice St., Honolulu, HI 96817
Ph: (808)848-4115, Fax: (808)847-8252
email: deepreef at bishopmuseum.org
http://www.bishopmuseum.org/bishop/HBS/pylerichard.html