Complex system science has arisen through the understanding that components and interactions between them are rarely linear and isolated (Chorley & Kennedy, 1971). Component variations can result in disturbances reverberating across temporal and spatial scales. The outcome of this can be severe system instability or even collapse. Complete knowledge of a system therefore cannot be achieved through studying isolated sections alone. Systems are more than the sum of its parts and thus far societies have proved this by continuing to apply practises that persistently result in degradation.
Category: Environment
Introduction
Interaction between humans and their environment is unavoidable. Every decision and action taken has an environmental consequence. Outcomes range in spatial and temporal significance and can be beyond our immediate environment.
Let Them Eat Cake
Food. Humans constantly consume food from the moment of birth until the day they die. What constitutes as food and what is consumed will change constantly over time and space. Why is this? Why have the eating habitats of societies changed throughout the years? Why do different cultures eat different foodstuffs? What makes food, food?
This discussion aims to examine three facets surrounding food. Firstly how do things become and how does meaning and purpose align itself with objects to turn them into food? Secondly the production and commodification of food will be examined. Lastly The processes of consumption, what we eat and why will be investigated. By grounding this discussion with real life examples, hopefully some insights into the food economy can be drawn.


