New Index is an archived exploration of knowledge organization.
The Dewey Decimal System is a widely-used library classification system that assigns unique numerical codes to different subjects based on a hierarchical structure that reflects the organization of human knowledge. The system is divided into ten main classes, with each main class representing a broad subject area, and each subsequent level of classification becoming increasingly specific.
000 Generalities
100 Philosophy & Psychology
200 Religion
300 Social Sciences
400 Language
500 Science
600 Technology
700 Arts & recreation
800 Literature
900 History & Geography
A key feature of the Dewey Decimal System is its flexibility and adaptability to different types of library collections and subject areas. Its numerical codes can be easily expanded or modified to accommodate new materials and changing information needs. Additionally, the system's hierarchical structure allows users to easily navigate and locate materials based on their subject matter.
Despite its age, the Dewey Decimal System remains a fundamental and enduring part of library and information science. Its systematic approach to classification and organization serves as a model for other knowledge organization systems, and its influence can be seen in many other fields–from data management to digital archiving.
The Periodic Table of Elements is a classification system for organizing chemical elements based on their atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. The table is divided into rows (called periods) and columns (called groups).
The arrangement of the table allows researchers to predict the properties and behavior of elements based on their position within the table. This enables the exploration of relationships between elements, the discovery of new elements, and furthers our understanding of the underlying natural and chemical principles. The Periodic Table continues to receive updates as our knowledge evolves, reflecting our incremental understanding of the atomic world.
The Periodic Table's systematic organization and structure have made it an essential tool in the fields of chemistry, physics, and materials science. Its enduring impact on scientific discovery and education highlights the importance of classification systems in facilitating the organization and dissemination of human knowledge.
The Margiela House Codes are the unique classification system employed by Maison Martin Margiela, a Paris-based fashion house founded in 1988. The system uses numbers from 0 to 23 to categorize the label's various collections and product lines, as each number corresponds to a specific theme or concept. The numbers most commonly appear as a tag on the garment, with the corresponding number circled to indicate the collection it belongs to.
0 Artisanal
1 Women's Collection
3 Fragrance
4 Wardrobe for Women
6 MM6 Collection
8 Eyewear
10 Men's Collection
11 Accessories
12 Jewelry
13 Objects and Catalogues
14 Wardrobe for Men
22 Footwear
While this numerical system facilitates identification, it can also be seen as a reflection of Margiela's philosophy. The incomplete use of the system mirrors the enigmatic nature of Margiela; the four white stitches that attach the label to the garment emphasize the minimal and deconstructivist style; and the label color itself blends seamlessly with Margiela's "Signature White." Beyond its utility for classification, the Margiela House Codes serve as an example of how a classification system can shape the creative expression of a brand.
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New Index is an archive of knowledge organization, containing structured systems of a cultural, contemporary, or esoteric nature. Knowledge organization is an intellectual discipline concerned with activities such as document description, indexing, and classification[1], that serve to provide systems of representation and order for knowledge and information projects. N-ID is exploring the parallels between creative strategy and the systems of knowledge organization; both of which aim to distill complex information into meaningful forms.
N-ID is an ongoing project from Patrick Johnson.
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