50. évfolyam, 2004. 1. szám

Archívum

Chaos theory deals with the behaviour of certain dynamical systems that, under certain circumstances (most importantly showing sensitivity to initial conditions), demonstrate the phenomenon called chaotic motion. The author points out the wide range of fields where the model of chaos can be applied, including library classification. Through the analysis of the components of the three main theories of classification (science theory, linguistic theory, statistical theory), the author suggests that classification, as a dynamic structure and intellectual activity can be regarded as an open system characterised by chaotic behaviour.

The phenomenon of sensitivity to initial conditions (see the famous example of butterfly effect) brings up the question of differing outcomes from the predicted process. In the classification work, the expected outcome is the most precise definition of the content and the satisfaction of the users. Unforeseen differences can occur due to the shortcomings of the classification system (e.g. the UDC system does not match perfectly the structures of scientific disciplines) and due to human factors (errors). Chaos theory helps understand the origins of errors that may happen during any process. In the dinamical systems created by men, chaotic motion can be reduced by prevention and feedback.

Országos Széchényi Könyvtár Észrevételek