The design of experiments shapes how mechanists observe. E.g.:

a + b + c = X

where a,b, and c are independent variables and X is a dependent variable. But because it would be impossible to include all of the variables which determine any given behavior, we limit the number of variables to something manageable, and then tack on an Etc term to the equation:

a + b + c + Etc = X

But it may be that in this Etc term is where the good stuff lies. All the small peculiarities, frailties, failures, small insights, passing dreams, idiosyncrasies, and moments alone and with friends that constitute the edges of who we come to be at any given moment – a coming-to-be that shapes the behavior of an organization, whether a person, a company, a composition, or a piece of furniture.

The question “Who selects ‘a’, ‘b’, and ‘c’” is a question of power. Because, the one who defines the dependent variables is the one whose description of the system will prevail.

Given the command-and-control facts on the ground in most places (i.e. who defines ‘a,’ ‘b,’ and ‘c’)–whether in our own heads or in the social structures in which we find ourselves–Etc is often the only refuge of democracy and native organization.

[Related article: “Texture”]

Posted in: Texture by admin on Thursday, December 20th, 2007

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