The difference between cladistic and Linnean classification in a nutshell

The difference between cladistic and Linnean classification is simply whether one assumes that classes are real or abstract, ie, assume that we find or invent them. Cladistic classification assumes that they are real, whereas Linnean classification assumes that they are abstract.

The problem for the former (ie, assuming that classes are real, as in cladistic classification) is that it ends in contradiction, actually paradoxical contradiction, which Bertrand Russell demonstrated in 1901 with “Russell’s paradox”. It means that it lacks a consistent solution.

The advantage with the latter, on the other hand, is that it only has consistent solutions.

Another contribution to understanding of conceptualization http://menvall.wordpress.com/