Final answer:
The dimensional approach to classification measures how much a specific characteristic is displayed, allowing for a range or spectrum, rather than discrete groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
The approach to classification that focuses on a specific characteristic and measures the degree to which that characteristic is displayed is called the dimensional approach. Unlike categorical classification that sorts entities into discrete groups, a dimensional approach allows for a spectrum or range, acknowledging that certain characteristics can vary by degree. For example, when classifying organisms by size, a dimensional approach would recognize the continuous nature of size variance rather than forcing a set number of discrete size categories.
The utility of a dimensional approach is often dependent on the correlation between different characteristics. If there is a strong correlation, then the dimensional approach becomes more 'real' or justifiable. For instance, if organism size correlates with a distinct shape, this further supports the use of size as a meaningful classification dimension.