Classification and the Definition of a Discipline: The Dewey Decimal Classification and Home Economics

descriptionPublicationkeyboard_double_arrow_right Article 01 Jun 2004 United States English Publisher:Project MUSEJournal:Libraries & Culture, volume 39, pages 245-259 (eissn: 1534-7591,

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Authors: Fields, Anne M.; Connell, Tschera Harkness;

doi: 10.1353/lac.2004.0058

handle: 1811/45111

Classification and the Definition of a Discipline: The Dewey Decimal Classification and Home Economics

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Abstract

Few not directly involved with the history of home economics may be aware of Melvil Dewey's close involvement with that discipline's early development. Early leaders in home economics attempted to have the subject subdivided between its original placement in the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) in the 600s (Useful Arts) and a complementary placement as a subdivision of the 300s (Sociology). The failure of this attempt illuminates Dewey's well-known resistance to tinkering with the DDC, internecine struggles within the discipline, and the discipline's gender-driven place within American culture.

Country

United States

Related Organizations

THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
United States

Keywords

home economics, 330, Melvil (1851-1931), 370, Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), Dewey, subject cataloging

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