The Shift from Anthropocene to Syntropocene: A New Era Awaits
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Chapter 1: Current Paradigms in Transition
We are undeniably experiencing a significant paradigm shift at this moment. Despite the chaos and uncertainty surrounding us, many ongoing developments are guiding us towards a more promising future. Admittedly, I share in the frustration and concern many feel today.
In my writings, I passionately discuss pressing issues such as women's rights in the USA and Afghanistan, the situation in Ukraine, and the complexities of geopolitics. Simultaneously, I recognize that we are moving towards a transition from the Anthropocene to the Syntropocene. The most challenging aspect of this transition involves institutions relinquishing their tight grip on control, allowing individuals the freedom to make personal choices without excessive oversight or condescension.
Chaos should not be feared; rather, it is essential for systemic change. Embracing this chaos can lead to a more affordable and equitable world, aligned with the natural order.
We, as humans, are part of nature. The emergence of basic income systems, alongside digital designs and autonomous technologies, is rapidly taking shape. The COVID pandemic has highlighted the importance of respecting all microbes, both beneficial and harmful, as we adapt our societal structures to acknowledge that viruses are an inescapable part of life.
Consider the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a vital lesson in geopolitics: we must prioritize local food production to combat hunger and rethink our energy sources. Emphasizing local production and consumption is key to a sustainable future.
Women in the USA serve as a powerful reminder that they must assert their rights within the frameworks of man-made laws. This situation illustrates that religious and legal structures should not be intertwined, and laws may increasingly become localized. If individuals are dissatisfied with their living conditions, moving to another region may become a common practice, potentially leading to a division within the United States.
Looking far ahead to the year 2222, I envision a world where land is regarded as belonging to Gaia, and humanity adopts a nomadic lifestyle, primarily residing inland or on what will be known as Flourishland—the former Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
In this future, our choices about companionship will evolve; family ties will not be the only determining factor in our relationships, and the concept of inheritance may fade away. Ultimately, the bonds we forge—soul families—will be the foundation of love and existence.
Is this vision aligned with yours? While it may seem incomplete, it captures the essence of the ongoing transformation. We must consider how to effectively communicate these ideas to those who may not yet perceive them.
Syntropy describes a collection of similar structures moving toward a common goal, akin to the alignment of ribs.
Section 1.1: Understanding the Syntropocene
So, what precisely is the Syntropocene? It represents a new epoch emerging from the current chaos, characterized by a collective awareness of a larger vision, prompting the formation of new patterns and growth in a unified direction.
The Syntropocene is already emerging, but that's a topic for another discussion. The term "syntropy" encompasses several interpretations: it signifies a symmetrical progression that avoids regression. Our aim is not to revert to the past but to evolve forward.
The term was first introduced by mathematician Luigi Fantappiè in 1941 to describe the mathematical properties of advanced wave solutions in the Klein-Gordon equation, uniting Quantum Mechanics with Special Relativity. As noted by Viterbo, syntropy represents “the tendency towards energy concentration, order, organization, and life.”
Syntropy aligns with the emerging understanding that entropy can lead to regeneration rather than degradation, illustrating that chaos is a precursor to new patterns. Evolutionary tipping points on our planet arise from chaos, balancing significant disparities. As my illustrations suggest, we remain on a promising trajectory—there is no need for fear if we adapt and make informed choices.
Syntropy represents life, while entropy signifies death.
One clear takeaway for many is that nature-based sciences, employing complexity science methods, will revolutionize our understanding. My observations indicate that mathematics and astrophysics are at the forefront of these scientific advancements.
Section 1.2: Transformation Processes in Nature
Fortunately, we are gaining an extensive body of knowledge. Recent research from MIT has shed light on the metamorphosis within a butterfly cocoon. Scientists have observed firsthand how butterfly wings develop—a profound transformation that defies the wasteful, linear processes often employed by humans.
The caterpillar undergoes a disintegration process before emerging as a butterfly, paralleling the natural cycle of life and death. Just as the caterpillar transforms, we too must recognize the necessity of change in our own lives, as it occurs continuously.
Shapeshifting, in this context, is an ongoing cycle of moments. If we were to create seasonal transformations today, it would be akin to pruning a leaf from a tree in autumn and reattaching it in spring—a misguided approach to life. Nature, however, embraces transformation.
Thanks to advancements in biochemistry, bioengineering, and biological sciences, we are now equipped with the insights needed for this transition. We are indeed moving from the Anthropocene to the Syntropocene.
The first video titled "The Anthropocene: Where on Earth are we Going? (Short)" offers a concise exploration of our current challenges and potential paths forward.
The second video, "The Anthropocene: Where on Earth are we Going? (Full)," provides a more in-depth analysis of the Anthropocene and its implications for our future.
Invitation to Contribute to the Bigger Picture
I invite you to share your insights with us. In our think-tank, Abundanism, we focus on educational initiatives and the practical implementation of syntropic agroforestry.
While some may perceive our work as romantic, it is rooted in scientific and technical principles. Technology, after all, is merely the product of human creativity.
Together, we can continue healing our planet with compassion and purpose. We welcome your thoughts and observations in the comments—your perspectives matter.
How the Age of Extinction Can Be Overcome by Abundant Adaptation
Umair Hague and 3D Water Evaporation
For credibility, you can find my profile on LinkedIn. Subscribe to my newsletter for more insights. As a certified biomimicry and blue economy professional, I also serve as an external expert for the European Commission.
Thank you, Gaia, for the gift of Wild Writing.
© Désirée Driesenaar, 2022