[P2P-F] Fwd: start the collaboration / complex adaptive systems

[Michel Bauwens]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Braden <d-braden at comcast.net>
Date: Sun, Sep 4, 2011 at 12:06 AM
Subject: start the collaboration
T

There is a scientific field exploring the characteristics of what are called
complex adaptive systems. The system in which we find ourselves . . . the
earth and the living systems on it . . . including the systems humans have
built . . . is the most complex adaptive system of which we know. I think we
are agreed that human actions have created a downward spiral in the
ecosystems on which we rely. I don't think we can depend on science to help
us decide how to reverse the downward spiral. That is because science is
based on a reductionist methodology in which no findings can be made without
testable hypotheses. In this most complex of adaptive systems, there are too
many variables to conduct a meaningful experiment. Each action produces
reactions throughout the system and an experiment must account for all
results.


Fortunately for us, it is an adaptive system. It functions by testing
multiple responses to stimuli and selecting the response that best fits with
the rest of the process. So far, it has evolved 'unconsciously'. The
consciousness we humans possess has, so far, been used only to further the
goals of individuals and groups . . . unconscious of the effect those
choices had on the habitat. I am suggesting that each of us has the power to
follow the example of the Urban Farming Guys and begin working at improving
the habitat in the locality where we find ourselves. You will know if your
actions are creating positive change when you attract the participation of
the people, plants and creatures around you . . . each new interaction is a
new flow of value.

http://theurbanfarmingguys.**com/ <http://theurbanfarmingguys.com/>


The way we change the world is for each of us, as individuals, to choose a
life of abundance. It is about understanding what we need to thrive and
choosing how we will produce it. We do not have to convince anyone else of
anything . . . if we demonstrate abundance others will want to know how we
do it. None of us have the whole answer. The first step is to understand
that it can be done . . . that it is a cooperation between the people,
plants and creatures within a locality. With that understanding we can begin
to consciously design the future. It is the great adventure of our time.

http://www.**organiclandscapedesign.org/**node/133<http://www.organiclandscapedesign.org/node/133>


I have now brought this series of posts full circle. We build sustainability
into our systems by changing the way we produce what we need. I have tried
to share with you some of the framework I use to understand these complex
issues . . . a framework that points in the direction of how we can begin to
address the systemic deficiencies humans have created because we did not
understand how the system functions.

http://www.**organiclandscapedesign.org/**node/259<http://www.organiclandscapedesign.org/node/259>


I have posted this series of posts on the Organic Landscape Design website
and hope that you will share them with people you know who are searching for
answers. I also hope to hear from each of you as you experiment with these
ideas.

http://www.**organiclandscapedesign.org/**content/start-collaboration<http://www.organiclandscapedesign.org/content/start-collaboration>

Let's start the collaboration.


In Community
David Braden



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