TYPOLOGIZE
What to Typologize?
To typologize is to sort domains of knowledge into coherent and consistent categories. So just as similarity unites a taxonomy, so dissimilarity arrays a typology. What you typologize is a population that contains significant differences between identifiable types. These types could be concepts, things, events, people, or some combinations of any of them. The difference could be superficial (features), operational (functions), or intrinsic (structures).
Why to Typologize?
Typologizing, like taxonomizing, is also a form of systemization, but in this case of ordering classes of instances into structured schemata. This, in turn, enables a person to identify similarities and dissimilarities, with an emphasis on the dissimilarities. It is the facility to categorize information and then use it for action that represents part of the pragmatics of knowing – that facilitates control, which is a primary human motivation.
When to Typologize?
As soon as possible, but (always) in a tentative form. Scientific principles are just guesses with a more substantial evidentiary basis that your own hunches – but, new evidence at some future time will undoubtedly require revising the originally proposed taxonomy.
So, the best time to typologize is every time an insight occurs, but always with the awareness that a subsequent insight might imply doing the arrangement all over again.
Whether to Typologize?
Distinguish between differences and aggregate similar types only to the extent that there is value in a particular clustering. Just as there is no intrinsic value in information as such, there is no intrinsic value in structuring it without a purpose. Let the goal determine the time, effort, and combination that is appropriate. It is always possible to aim for such a comprehensive overview that significant differences are lumped together.
How to Typologize?
The objective view is that categorizations reflect “reality” – one of the tenants of positivism, but actually an illusion. So the question to ask is “What do I (or we) want the typology to accomplish?” Use the chunking metaphor – information can always be further aggregated if the need arises, so begin with intuitive boundaries. Start with categories that “make sense” and only change them for a good reason.
References
Kenneth D. Bailey
TYPOLOGIES AND TAXONOMIES
Sage Publications, Thousand Oakes, 1994