arborescent

Like a tree; having a structure or appearance similar to that of a tree; branching.

Hydatica. Stem arborescent, jointed, branched; leaves long, linear.

In §1 we review the definition of the arborescent links and discuss a convention to inductively analyze these links. We also recall some facts about foliations. In §2 we show how to represent an oriented arborescent link L by a special type of tree called a candidate tree.

Marked by insistence on totalizing principles, binarism and dualism (as opposed to the rhizome theory).

Gilles Deleuze criticizes the Chomsky hierarchy of formal languages, which he considers a perfect example of arborescent dualistic theory.

Deleuze and Guattari think, for instance, that metaphysics is an example of arborescent thinking, which is a model of thought like an erect tree, because it has been shaped by arboreal metaphors from the moment of its origin. They explain, "Arborescent systems are hierarchical systems with centers of significance (sic) and subjectification, central automata like organized memories. In the corresponding models, an element only receives information from a higher unit, and only receives a subjective affection along preestablished paths."