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Gaian Systems
Lynn Margulis, Neocybernetics, and the End of the Anthropocene
Series: Posthumanities
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Format: Paperback / softback
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"A groundbreaking look at Gaia theory's intersections with neocybernetic systems theory"--
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Description
A groundbreaking look at Gaia theory's intersections with neocybernetic systems theory. Often seen as an outlier in science, Gaia has run a long and varied course since its formulation in the 1970s by atmospheric chemist James Lovelock and microbiologist Lynn Margulis. Gaian Systems is a pioneering exploration of the dynamic and complex evolution of Gaia's many variants, with special attention to Margulis's foundational role in these developments.
Bruce Clarke assesses the different dialects of systems theory brought to bear on Gaia discourse. Focusing in particular on Margulis's work—including multiple pieces of her unpublished Gaia correspondence—he shows how her research and that of Lovelock was concurrent and conceptually parallel with the new discourse of self-referential systems that emerged within neocybernetic systems theory. The recent Gaia writings of Donna Haraway, Isabelle Stengers, and Bruno Latour contest its cybernetic status.
Clarke engages Latour on the issue of Gaia's systems description and extends his own systems-theoretical synthesis under what he terms "metabiotic Gaia." This study illuminates current issues in neighbouring theoretical conversations—from biopolitics and the immunitary paradigm to NASA astrobiology and the Anthropocene. Along the way, he points to science fiction as a vehicle of Gaian thought.
Delving into many issues not previously treated in accounts of Gaia, Gaian Systems describes the history of a theory that has the potential to help us survive an environmental crisis of our own making.
Series: Posthumanities
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Gaian Systems
A groundbreaking look at Gaia theory's intersections with neocybernetic systems theory. Often seen as an outlier in science, Gaia has run a long and varied course since its formulation in the 1970s by atmospheric chemist James Lovelock and microbiologist Lynn Margulis. Gaian Systems is a pioneering exploration of the dynamic and complex evolution of Gaia's many variants, with special attention...PaperbackSold Out
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Gaian Systems by Bruce Clarke receives praise for its clear and precise exploration of complex systems and cybernetics. Critics highlight Clarke's intellectual love and rigorous examination of symbiogenetic concepts, particularly appreciating the homage to Lynn Margulis and the broader implications for understanding our planet. The book is noted for instructing, illuminating, and offering hope regarding the intricacies of our living world.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781517909123
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 29 September 2020
Country: United States
Imprint: University of Minnesota Press
Illustration: 13 B-W Illustrations
Audience: General / adult, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 38.0mm
Width: 140.0mm
Height: 216.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 336
About the Author
Bruce Clarke is Paul Whitfield Horn Professor of Literature and Science in the Department of English at Texas Tech University. He is the author or editor of ten books, among them Neocybernetics and Narrative (Minnesota, 2014) and Posthuman Metamorphosis.
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