Thursday, August 13, 2009

Carol Kaesuk Yoon: What's the big deal about Taxonomy?

I think this may be one of the best pieces of writing I've read in a long, long time: Reviving the Lost Art of Naming the World by Carol Kaesuk Yoon. Almost like reading a letter from a dear, intelligent friend. She ties in science, the need to relate to nature, and the need to make sure our kids get outside. And it is fun. I was reading this while eating alone in a restaurant and laughed outloud, prompting my waitress to do a double take. Only a truly great writer could make a story about the dying craft of taxonomy funny.

If you need something interesting to read because you are in an August state of mind, this is the ticket. Do not be afraid: you need not be a scientist to understand the big deal here.

Bravo, Carol.

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