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A Beetle By Any Other Name

99% Invisible

CHAPTER

Naming Controversies in Taxonomy

This chapter examines the contentious issue of species names, especially those linked to controversial historical figures like Hitler. It highlights the resistance within the scientific community toward renaming efforts, despite calls for political awareness and sensitivity in nomenclature. The discussion balances the intriguing biology of species with problematic names against the backdrop of colonial legacies and the potential for thoughtful change.

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