ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

Contextual explanation · NAV-G05-052

Similarity

This explanation addresses the term in its originating context. It is not an additional canonical Atlas profile.

Explanation

Similarity relates objects or cases that agree in specified respects without needing to be identical. Which respects matter and how they are weighted depend on the question. In family resemblance, overlapping similarities can connect a group without one feature being shared by every member. This entails neither that any arbitrary collection forms a justified category nor that similarity is automatically transitive. Analysis must state comparison dimensions, counterexamples and purpose. A superficial resemblance may matter for one question and mislead for another.

Movement of thought

1. Identify the items compared. 2. Specify relevant respects. 3. Weight shared properties. 4. Examine differences. 5. Test the scope of grouping.

Example

Three games may share equipment, rules or competition pairwise without exactly the same feature connecting all three.

Counter-test

If A resembles B and B resembles C, A need not resemble C in the relevant respect.

Scientific use case

Conceptual analysis can investigate which comparisons actually sustain a category.

Effect

Similarity enables connection without complete identity.

Resonance

Closeness can arise from different stretches of shared ground.

Distinction

Distinguish similarity from identity, necessary transitivity and a universal shared essence.

Sources