Folk Taxonomy

Folk taxonomy refers to the way everyday people categorize and classify living things based on common knowledge and cultural understanding, rather than scientific criteria. For instance, someone might group all four-legged animals together and call them "pets," encompassing dogs, cats, and even farm animals. This system reflects personal experiences and societal norms, often differing from the precise classifications used in science. Folk taxonomy highlights how people make sense of the natural world around them, creating relatable connections and labels that can vary between cultures and communities.