I first encountered the Living Systems Theory at a retreat at the Banff Centre, and it left a lasting impression on me. The theory, which views all elements—whether living organisms, ecosystems, or technology—as interconnected, has fascinated me ever since. It’s a framework that helps us understand how everything is part of a larger, self-organizing system. This perspective became even more relevant when I explored the concept of technobiophilia, coined by Dr. Sue Thomas.
Technobiophilia refers to the human attraction to nature through technology. As we increasingly interact with digital environments, technology has become a tool for strengthening our connection to nature. In Technobiophilia: Nature and Human Interactions in the Digital Age, Oe, Yamaoka, and Weeks discuss how, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual experiences—like nature documentaries or digital landscapes—helped people stay connected to the environment even while distanced from it. This digital nature engagement reflects how technology and nature can complement each other, which ties perfectly into the Living Systems Theory.
To better understand these ideas, I created a wordcloud using terms from the readings. Words like "nature," "technology," "sustainability," and "ecosystem" stood out, highlighting the interconnectedness of the two worlds. It was fascinating to visually see how the digital realm can help bridge our relationship with nature, reinforcing the idea that both are part of the same living system.
Reflecting on technobiophilia, I’ve come to realize that technology isn’t just a tool but a way to enhance and nurture our connection to the environment. As I continue to explore the Living Systems Theory and technobiophilia, I’m excited by the possibilities for creating a sustainable, harmonious relationship between technology and nature.
Works Cited
Oe, Hiroko, Yasuyuki Yamaoka, Max Weeks. "Technobiophilia: Nature and Human Interactions in the Digital Age." Cogent Arts & Humanities, vol. 9, no. 1, 2022, DOI: 10.1080/23311983.2022.2068823.
Thomas, Sue. "Technologies Inspired by Nature." Cosmos Magazine, 2018, https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/technologies-inspired-by-nature.
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