ON THE NATURE OF GLOBAL CLASSIFICATION

Molecular sequencing technology has brought biology into the era of gl obal (universal) classification. Methodologically and philosophically, global classification differs significantly from traditional, local c lassification. The need for uniformity requires that higher level taxa be defined on the molecular level in terms of universally homologous functions. A global classification should reflect both principal dimen sions of the evolutionary process: genealogical relationship and quali ty and extent of divergence within a group. The ultimate purpose of a global classification is not simply information storage and retrieval; such a system should also function as an heuristic representation of the evolutionary paradigm that exerts a directing influence on the cou rse of biology. The global system envisioned allows paraphyletic taxa. To retain maximal phylogenetic information in these cases, minor nota tional amendments in existing taxonomic conventions should be adopted.