PDF Summary:Why Fish Don't Exist, by Lulu Miller

For centuries, we believed fish existed as a single category of animals. But as biologists examine the evolutionary origins of species, the "fish" label begins to crumble. Why Fish Don't Exist by Lulu Miller follows the life of David Starr Jordan, a taxonomist obsessed with categorizing and ordering life. His relentless search for meaning among chaos reveals the comfort found in classification – as well as its limitations.

Miller interweaves Jordan's story with the human tendency to compartmentalize the world and our own complex existence. Her unique blend of biography and philosophical musing asks: In an endlessly complex universe, how far can our longing for order lead us – and at what cost?

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Jordan's perspective on evolutionary theory emphasized a tiered arrangement of species, placing humans at the pinnacle.

Jordan embraced the conviction that the natural world is organized in a hallowed hierarchy, an idea likely influenced by Aristotle's concept of the "Great Chain of Being." In Jordan's perspective, the sacred hierarchy of life is marked by each species and organism, placing humans at the absolute summit. From his viewpoint, the idea of evolution did not diminish the celestial hierarchy but rather revealed a chronological arrangement of diverse species, culminating with humans at the apex. His belief in the hierarchical organization of life was solidified, and he became more resolute in his quest to discover the moral lessons embedded within the natural world's configuration.

Jordan firmly believed that tampering with nature's intrinsic equilibrium could result in the degradation of both ethical principles and the integrity of species.

Agassiz cautioned that while individuals have the potential to reach elevated spiritual levels, they also risk a decline in their status, both morally and physically, due to harmful practices. Jordan's unease regarding the potential for human regression prompted him to endorse controversial measures like eugenic intervention. Agassiz perceived the natural world as a script filled with sacred moral direction, whereas Jordan sought to use his understanding of nature's structure to reinforce moral and spiritual beliefs.

Jordan champions the deliberate cultivation of helpful illusions and the willful engagement in self-deception as critical components for building resilience and achieving success.

Jordan's justification of obstacles and setbacks, along with his hesitation to recognize his own limitations

Jordan's optimistic perspective and his ability to rationalize even the most severe situations enabled him to stay buoyant and persist with his pursuits. He circumvented confronting his limitations by converting failures into triumphs, using a so-called "barrier of positivity." His unwavering pursuit of his objectives was bolstered by a mindset that shielded him from discouragement, even when faced with setbacks.

Jordan discovered mental and societal advantages by nurturing an exaggerated perception of his significance and skills.

Jordan recognized that an inflated perception of his own competence and importance offered psychological and social advantages. Research suggests that such positive illusions can cushion the impact of challenges and are vital for the trait identified as persistence. Jordan skillfully converted setbacks into chances to demonstrate his generosity or ethical character, thus not only shielding his self-esteem from damage but also often turning criticism into praise. Furthermore, historical documents suggest Jordan meticulously crafted his life story and professional journey to preserve his reputation. He approached life with a blend of justification and slight conceit, skillfully converting potential shortcomings and errors into traits and achievements worthy of praise, especially in a life where divine guidance is absent.

David Starr Jordan's involvement with the eugenics movement in America and its detrimental impact on already marginalized communities.

The book explores the role David Starr Jordan played in advancing eugenics within the United States and the negative consequences this had on already marginalized communities.

Jordan advocated for the necessity of removing individuals considered unfit, a concept that included the eradication of inferior animal traits.

David Starr Jordan, who was a proponent of the eugenics movement in the early United States, believed that some people were of greater worth than others and worried that charitable deeds might lead to an increase in the population of those he considered "unfit," potentially leading to a global decline of the human race. He endorsed the idea that "animal pauperism" could lead to the weakening of both physical and cognitive abilities in a species through continuous aid.

In the 1880s, while at Indiana University, Jordan advocated for the idea that traits such as "pauperism" and "degeneracy" were inheritable and should be eliminated, integrating eugenic concepts into his educational approach. Jordan led the American Breeders Association's eugenics committee and passionately supported the principles of eugenics, often discussing them in his many lectures and publications. He advocated for the refinement of genetic heritage, expressing his views in his publications, among which are "The Human Harvest," "The Blood of the Nation," and "Your Family Tree."

Jordan championed the implementation of eugenic measures, calling for the compulsory sterilization of individuals deemed to possess subpar genetic traits.

Jordan promoted the application of sterilization to limit the procreation of individuals considered unsuitable. He advocated for the removal of what he termed "inferior genetic material" from the populace of the United States, a stance that gained legitimacy through a Supreme Court ruling that allowed for compulsory sterilization.

Jordan served as the chairperson for the committee focused on eugenics at the American Breeders Association, highlighting his participation in the eugenics movement in America.

Jordan cemented his position within the movement that supported the growth of policies related to eugenics in America through his fervent advocacy in various leadership roles. He felt it was his responsibility to halt the surge of incompetence.

Many people were forcibly sterilized due to the eugenic legislation implemented in the United States.

The fervent endorsement of eugenics by Jordan significantly contributed to its broad adoption and application across the United States. Indiana set a global precedent by being the initial state to implement laws on sterilization. As time went on, more states set standards that disqualified people for reasons such as poor performance on standardized tests, bearing children while unmarried, or possessing a criminal history. These criteria often served as proxies to systematically discriminate against marginalized populations.

The disproportionate targeting of marginalized groups, such as women, racial minorities, and the disabled

Marginalized groups, including women, racial minorities, and the disabled, faced significant and unequal consequences due to eugenic policies across America. Alexandra Minna Stern's research revealed that the victims of these practices were varied, including not just young women deemed overly promiscuous but also children of immigrants, those who defied conventional sexual standards, and people from numerous ethnic backgrounds. During the period from the 1930s to the 1960s, a substantial number of Indigenous women from North America, along with a large group of African women from North Carolina, and nearly one-third of women from Puerto Rico underwent enforced sterilization.

The long-lasting, deleterious impact of these policies on affected individuals and communities

The societal upheaval and mental anguish continue due to initiatives that enforced sterilization without consent. People such as Anna, who underwent forced sterilization at the age of nineteen, carry marks that are both visible and concealed. Beyond the personal pain, these policies have caused broad societal shame, and awareness of this dark chapter in American history continues to grow. The decision of the highest court to allow these actions remains in effect, setting a troubling precedent regarding the freedoms of individuals deemed unsuitable according to governmental standards. The stringent measures implemented at the institution in Virginia for individuals with epilepsy and intellectual disabilities underscore the grave impact of such actions on people, providing a clear cautionary example that ought to inform our choices today and in the future.

The author's intertwining of the broader implications of categorization and the inherent dangers of steadfast belief is deeply connected with her own interaction with Jordan's story.

The author skillfully intertwines tales from her own life with broader themes like categorization and the nature of what is certain, delivering a narrative that delves into philosophical thought. The author contemplates the intertwining of her own struggles, the quest for structure, and the yearning for understanding with the narrative of David Starr Jordan.

The author's fascination with Jordan's story ignited a journey to find solace for her own inner conflicts.

The author draws a comparison between her quest for purpose and direction amidst turmoil and grief and the similar journey undertaken by Jordan.

In her journey to discover meaning and calm her internal turmoil, the author takes comfort in her resemblance to the ichthyologist: a steadfast commitment to bringing structure to the chaos of existence. She reflects on the narrative of Jordan's life and ponders if maintaining hope in the face of adversity signifies victory or naivety.

The author's growing awareness of the problematic aspects of Jordan's perspective, along with the perils associated with unchecked self-belief.

The writer's examination prompts a contemplation of potential issues stemming from his unwavering conviction in the strength of human resolve and progress. She reflects on the concealed treachery in the hopeful outlook associated with Jordan and the perils that come with an absolute belief in relentless progress.

The author explores the concept that the category we refer to as "fish" is an arbitrary and flawed grouping.

The meticulous examination by cladists of the classification of organisms commonly referred to as "fish" profoundly influences our understanding and structuring of the natural world.

The author reflects on the viewpoint of cladists who challenged the conventional system of scientific classification, emphasizing its flawed basis in the context of categorizing aquatic species. Cladists, through their focus on common evolutionary characteristics, have restructured the conventional taxonomy, showing that lungfish share a closer evolutionary connection with terrestrial creatures such as cows than with other water-dwelling species like salmon.

The author contemplates the damage that can result from inflexible classifications and underscores the importance of embracing epistemic humility.

The author illustrates the detrimental effects of rigid classification by exploring the metaphor of a sledgehammer, designed like a fish, that breaks apart the notion of distinct species in the water. She emphasizes the importance of examining the criteria and groupings used to understand the world, especially in terms of ethical and cognitive superiority. The author advocates for an appreciation of the intricate complexities of the natural world and recommends interacting with our environment with a sense of awe and humility, by questioning the traditional classification of marine organisms we commonly refer to as fish.