THE EVOLUTION OF IDEAS - A PHYLOGENY OF SHELL MODELS

Researchers have used mathematical models to analyze and classify shel ls and, by simulating hypothetical forms, to test specific theories ab out them. Based on an analogy in which these mathematical models are c onsidered as species, I construct a data set and derive a cladogram of shell models. This analysis provides a concise, graphic review of the major works in the discipline of shell modeling. Interpreting the res ults phylogenetically, I demonstrate that an evolutionary model provid es insights into the different approaches taken by researchers, permit s the differentiation and classification of models into clades of form and growthlike ''species,'' and allows the identification of anagenes is and historical constraints in the development of ideas in the disci pline of shell modeling.