Indexing Subject Ontogeny

Abstract

This paper discusses about origin and evolution of subjects—the subject ontogeny, and the changes in it that gets reflected in indexing language. We argue subjects originate from ideas that are products of intellectual efforts. The function of indexing language is to make access to knowledge of subjects easier through scientific mechanisms (schemes) and methodologies that give users much freedom and convenience in their search for information. We undertake a formal discussion on the theory of subject ontogeny linked to intellectual history of idea generation and how changes in its ontogeny are captured and retained through indexing languages.