As opposed to [megatechnics], an organic system directs itself to qualitative richness, amplitude, spaciousness, free from quantitative pressure and crowding, since self-regulation, self-correction, and self-propulsion are as much an integral property of organisms as nutrition, reproduction, growth, and repair. Balance, wholeness, completeness, continuous interplay between inner and outer, the subjective and the objective aspects of existence are identifying characteristics of the organic model; and the general name for an economy based on such a model is an economy of plenitude.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Mumford contrasts megatechnics with an organic system that values qualitative richness and self-regulation, defining an economy of plenitude.
- In plain terms
- Organic systems value richness and balance over quantity and pressure.
- What can you take from it?
- Favor organic models that balance quantity and quality over industrial mass production.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What defines an economy of plenitude?
- How do we shift from megatechnics?
Another view
Organic systems may struggle with large-scale industrial needs.
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