Crime Pays but Botany Doesn't (crimepaysbutbotanydoesnt.com)

Article summary

The article provides guidance for individuals interested in teaching themselves botany, emphasizing the importance of understanding Latin terminology and taxonomy. It recommends several textbooks, including Plant Systematics by Michael Simpson and Raven's Biology of Plants, and suggests using online resources and book sharing websites for access to educational materials. The article also provides tips on how to make a herbarium pressing and label it with relevant information. Additionally, it touches on the history and significance of using Latin in botanical nomenclature.

Main themes

• Botany education
• Latin terminology
• Taxonomy
• Plant systematics
• Self-study resources
• Botanical nomenclature

What commenters say

• The use of Latin in botanical nomenclature is a practical choice that was widely accepted in the 18th century and remains useful today.
• Some argue that the association of Latin with European cultures is a limitation, but others see it as a neutral, universal language for science.
• The choice of Latin in botanical nomenclature is not inherently 'backwards' or 'goofy', but rather a reflection of the language of learning at the time.
• There are differing opinions on the effectiveness of various plant identification apps, with some preferring Flora Incognita and others recommending PlantNet or iNaturalist.
• The use of Latin in botanical nomenclature is not being replaced by a new system, but rather continues to be used as a standardized and widely accepted language.
• Some commenters appreciate the author's approach to botany and their critiques of how people manage 'green' spaces, while others focus on the technical aspects of plant identification.
• The discussion touches on the idea that botanical knowledge can be accessible and useful for people from various backgrounds and with different levels of expertise.
• There are different perspectives on the importance of using standardized, universal languages in science, with some arguing that it facilitates communication and others seeing it as a potential limitation.