It’s always useful to remember what there are distinct differences between “discover,” “define,” and “describe.” I was reminded of this while reading an article today on the reintroduction of certain Ceara Gnateaters into the Aratanha Mountains of Brazil.
In the article, the author notes that this bird’s name is derived from the region of Brazil in which it was “described by naturalists in the early 20th century.” Described – though not necessarily discovered, and certainly not defined.
This caution regarding terms is particularly useful in scientific accounting. For example carefully consider whether this or that process is actually defining the mechanism by which something occurs, or only describing what occurs. We would not wish, in some form of intellectual hubris, to claim a fuller understanding of the nature of things than we truly have.
Thus endeth the lesson, as they say. But if your like to read more about the rebirding in Ceará, I found the article from Cornell’s Lab of Ornithology a very enjoyable read!
thegreatknock 