Taxonomies for categorization and research: Is a mining analogy valid?

EDITOR'S SUMMARY References to “data mining” or “text mining” suggest a parallel between the value characteristics of mineral mining and using taxonomies in searching for information. Research platforms combining a literature database and a taxonomy may be thought of as a mine and raw material source and a specialized tool for extraction. Information searchers are prospectors looking for specific information but without the need to establish major exploratory operations. Information mining involves digital extraction and can reveal the “ore” within the rock through inline tagging of taxonomy concepts. Analogous to gold miners working to discover tiny nuggets, information prospectors drill down to their target by using a taxonomy‐based platform to refine their search and reveal and process desired content. The same taxonomy can point to additional resources, like a mineral vein in a mine. An important difference between the mine and database is that, unlike mineral resources, data is not depleted when accessed and used. Whether mineral or information mining, each yields valuable resources to be used to advance human endeavors.