Reflections on the metaphysics and epistemology of classification from a distinguished group of philosophers. Contemporary discussions of the success of science often invoke an ancient metaphor from Plato's Phaedrus: successful theories should "carve nature at its joints." But is nature really "jointed"? Are there natural kinds of things around which our theories cut? The essays in this volume offer reflections by a distinguished group of philosophers on a series of intertwined issues in the metaphysics and epistemology of classification. The contributors consider such topics as the relevance of natural kinds in inductive inference; the role of natural kinds in natural laws; the nature of fundamental properties; the naturalness of boundaries; the metaphysics and epistemology of biological kinds; and the relevance of biological kinds to certain questions in ethics. Carving Nature at Its Joints offers both breadth and thematic unity, providing a sampling of state-of-the-art work in contemporary analytic philosophy that will be of interest to a wide audience of scholars and students concerned with classification.

Includes how-to information for carving: two fish, a plane-leaf bowl, a tree frog, butterflies and moths, a wren, a couple of sticks, waves, a cobra, a turtle, an otter relief, a heron, and a formal leaf design.

Craig Stevens creates images from nature by using carved shapes and patterns rather than outlining the subject. Craig shares his method with other carvers, going step-by-step through the carving process. Every carving step for the main project is illustrated with a clear color photograph and a concise description. The patterns and a gallery of variations and applications are included.

Nature in Wood is a title by Fox Chapel Publishing

Over 230 color photographs, paint color charts, and precise patterns provide woodcarvers with information necessary to create from basswood small animals that are big on character. Step-by-step instructions and detailed color photos lead through each step of a field mouse carving project. Patterns also for an armadillo, skunk, and raccon. Woodburning and painting techniques presented with the same attention to detail.

· The most successful whittling book ever published now available in a handsome new hardcover gift edition · Features 18 step-by-step projects for knives, forks, birds, animals, trees, flowers, and more · Includes information on wood selection, knife selection, safety, and sharpening · Great gift for beginners looking for an easy way to get started, and for more advanced carvers looking for a relaxing way to spend their time

The Swiss Army Knife Whittling Book, specially designed for children.