The Hermeneutics of the Notions of “classification” and “typology”

Abstract

In this article, the authors interpret the polyvalence of the notions of classification and typology, in order to highlight specific features and divergent elements. Some definitions are discussed and the dual nature of classification—as a process and as an outcome—is highlighted. Classification and typology are seen as conceptual operations, which are united by a single goal — the ordering of a given set of objects. The authors conclude that classification focuses on classes, and typology — on types, and that within classifications each element can be assigned to a single class, depending on the criterion chosen for differentiation, but within typology — the same element can be part of several types. In the context of the systematization of contemporary legal systems, the authors state that some of them cannot be attributed to any class, which goes against the logic of classification, instead, from the point of view of typology, there may be atypical legal systems, which they do not contain elements specific to any type.