a system for classifying odor qualities based on a scheme originally developed by Swedish botanist Carolus Linnaeus (1707–1778). According to this system, there are nine primary odor qualities: ethereal, aromatic, fragrant, ambrosiac, alliaceous, empyreumatic, hircine, foul, and nauseous. These qualities combine to produce the perceptions of smells. [Hendrik Zwaardemaker]
a method of developing and improving group consensus by eliminating the effects of personal relationships and dominating personalities. Conflict is managed by circulating a questionnaire, which is edited and summarized on the basis of the last round of comments and then reissued for further response by those participating in the survey. The Delphi technique is used in many situations where convergence of opinion is desirable (e.g., for defining goals, setting standards, or identifying and ranking needs and priorities).