Chapter 1: Understanding the Syntropocene

Initially, I had intended to focus my narratives on lighthearted themes aimed at reducing stress and fear, essential for human well-being. However, my perspective shifted dramatically towards the idea of the Syntropocene. This change feels significant—a clear indication of my role as an educator and storyteller in today's world. It’s not just coincidence; it’s serendipitous or perhaps even synchronicity at play. The Syntropocene embodies what we truly desire and yearn for at a profound level.

The Syntropocene represents an era of interconnectedness—people, the planet, and prosperity—where we acknowledge our relationship with Earth. It is the time when humanity transforms into a more adaptable species, redesigning our systems for a healthier coexistence. Why adaptability? Because thriving species are the ones that adapt.

In light of this, rather than sharing the light stories I had planned, I will delve into more serious discussions about the Syntropocene and its implications beyond 2028. It seems that the insights we possess in our think-and-do tank, Abundanism, may not yet be fully recognized by everyone. Therefore, let’s explore the transition from the Anthropocene to the Syntropocene.

Let’s begin with a dive into the scientific realm.

Mapping the Full Spectrum

To start, let’s explore beta sciences, which have significantly influenced our worldview and continue to reshape it. Change is the only constant in this world, and progress is a continuous journey.

I trust that you will not be intimidated by beta sciences and will continue reading; it won’t be complicated. If you seek deeper understanding, the opportunity is there. I’m addressing an intelligent audience, so I won’t overwhelm you with excessive details. If something is unclear, feel free to ask, and I’ll strive to clarify.

As you engage with this content, I encourage you to conduct your own research. Utilize search engines to find credible scientific sources rather than questionable ones, and connect what I discuss with your existing knowledge. I hope the comments section will facilitate further discussion and the sharing of ideas, enabling collective growth and the challenging of stagnant beliefs.

What’s on the horizon for beta sciences as we approach 2028 and beyond? Complexity sciences have been established for some time, but we are poised for a significant breakthrough that will redefine the scientific landscape forever.

As we move towards 2028, complexity sciences will reveal numerous effects and causes, fostering more transparent communication and observations of the natural world, both on our planet and beyond. This is the truth of the present—a truth that may evolve as the conditions on our planet and among all organisms continue to change.

Change is an eternal process, and the notion of balance is often an illusion; it is a journey towards dynamic equilibrium known as evolution. This evolution unfolds every day, every second, shaped by the choices made by various species.

We will gain clarity by mapping a full spectrum, identifying nodes and strategies that facilitate swift change, and exploring multiple possible solutions. Our aim will be to select solutions that yield the maximum impact with minimal effort within specific biomes—landscapes intertwined with human cultures. By balancing supply and demand across all layers, we will focus on connections and movements, consistently returning to the core.

Breaking Free from Linear Thinking

Historically, science has been predominantly linear. For a long time, the scientific community has been preoccupied with proving each other's validity, often judging based on causation versus correlation—a simplistic binary perspective.

Causation is deemed favorable as it indicates a robust link between cause and effect. For instance, the coronavirus is linked to COVID-19, and the HIV virus is tied to AIDS—these associations are undeniably strong.

Conversely, correlation is often viewed negatively. In statistics, correlation is typically presented as a linear relationship, which can be misleading. In reality, correlation exists on a spectrum, indicating varying strengths of association between causes and effects.

For instance, the phrase "correlation does not imply causation" suggests that just because two variables are related, it does not mean one directly causes the other. A seasonal example is the increased shopping activity in the UK during colder weather, which does not necessarily imply that cold weather drives spending.

Are causation and correlation the complete narrative? Certainly not! Complexity science has broadened this duality into a full spectrum of understanding.

There’s often misunderstanding in both correlation and causation within scientific circles today. It’s crucial to recognize that statistics and science cannot provide absolute truth indefinitely; factors change, and so do correlations and causations.

Take milk, for example. While it is known to be rich in calcium, the assumption that consuming more milk directly strengthens bones is overly simplistic. The truth involves understanding how the body absorbs calcium from milk, which varies among individuals. Notably, Vitamin D plays a vital role in this transformation process.

In my environmental studies, I’ve discovered that modern humans spend 90% of their time indoors, diminishing our exposure to natural light and leading to Vitamin D deficiencies in our immune systems.

So, if reality is more complex than it seems, why do some scientists insist they possess the ultimate truth? Many scientists cling to being right rather than embracing curiosity about future discoveries. Additionally, many individuals are hesitant to take responsibility for their health and prefer external guidance from scientists.

Embracing Complexity Science

The crux is that linear science often simplifies causation to a single cause-effect relationship. In contrast, the reality is a complex web of interactions. To navigate this complexity, we must reverse our approach—begin with the effect, observe it deeply, and uncover multiple causes and relationships.

Complexity sciences reintroduce uncertainty and curiosity into the scientific process, which is a wonderful development. This is akin to the exploration done in the arts, where serious inquiry pairs with creative experimentation.

How do we engage in complexity science? We start by observing the effects thoroughly and identifying the causes that significantly influence those effects. We relate everything to nature—our planet, local conditions, and the broader environment, understanding that internal and external factors are interconnected.

In effective complexity science, we recognize nodes and distributed systems, akin to keystone species in ecology, which play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Through these nodes, we can instigate rapid change if we comprehend their relational dynamics.

Let’s delve into observing the effects. What are the underlying problems, and what related issues emerge? In our observations, we operate not within a controlled lab setting but in real-life contexts, acknowledging that all effects are inherently linked to nature.

Utilizing Nature’s Wisdom

The positive aspect is that since all effects are rooted in nature, the causes and solutions can be found within nature as well. Nature embodies strategies and functions, which we can draw upon to address environmental challenges, pollution, waste, and human systems.

We can devise solutions that align with nature or innovate in intelligent ways that challenge it. Both approaches are valid as long as we maintain awareness of our actions and their consequences.

As my mother often says, "When you burn your butt, you have to sit on the blisters." This wisdom encourages us to reflect on our actions—what have we done right, what have we done wrong, and how can we improve moving forward? Currently, we utilize only 20% of nature’s strategies, indicating a vast potential for growth.

Exploring Complexity Science Methods

So, how do we practice complexity science? There are various methodologies, including:

• Goethean Science: Thinkers like Goethe and Leonardo da Vinci recognized that quality supersedes quantity. They were polymaths who understood the value of deep observation, exemplified by the flight of bumblebees, which defy conventional physics.

By applying these insights, we might revolutionize aviation, reducing energy consumption and enhancing efficiency.

• Quality and Quantity in AI: With a strong grasp of nodes, keyholes, and the statistical relevance of a clean slate, we can map effects and their interrelated causes, balancing local supply and demand in innovative ways.

Final Thoughts

There is a wealth of knowledge to uncover in science today, and everyone has a role to play. Scientists should seek to combine unexpected fields, such as bio-mathematics and neuroscience, while decision-makers need to learn how to map relationships and identify key nodes for change.

Innovators and design thinkers must explore beyond conventional reasoning to discover effective solutions by harnessing the full spectrum of human cognition.

As we navigate these transformative times, let’s embrace the dualities of our planet and our existence. I invite you to engage in the comments—share your insights, challenge my reasoning, and contribute to this fascinating dialogue. I am open to all thoughts and opinions.

For a glimpse into my professional background, you can find additional credibility on LinkedIn, where I am recognized as a certified expert in biomimicry and the blue economy.

Thank you, Mike, for your valuable input in our collective endeavor at Abundanism. And thank you, Gaia, for inspiring my writing journey.

© Désirée Driesenaar, 2022