I recently received an invitation from Nora Bateson to attend a Warm Data course in North Carolina this September. The invitation introduced me to a word I hadn’t come across before: schismogenesis.
The term was coined by her father, Gregory Bateson, and refers to the creation of division through patterns of interaction. He described two main types: symmetrical, where both sides escalate in a similar manner, such as a rivalry that keeps intensifying; and complementary, where each side reinforces the other’s role, like dominance provoking submission or criticism triggering defensiveness. Both types form feedback loops that widen the divide.
I’ve been reflecting on this issue for years, but now I’ve a name for it and a reason to explore Gregory Bateson’s work more thoroughly. His definition of information, for instance, as a difference that makes a difference, is especially persuasive.
A further draw is that Daniel Schmachtenberger will be giving an evening talk on schismogenesis.
It sounds like a valuable and relevant event. I won’t be able to attend, but you might find it worthwhile.
Knowledge Letter: Issue: 302 (Subscribe)
Tags: Gregory Bateson (9) | Nora Bateson (8) | warm data (5)
RSS: Blog Feed
Photo Credits: Midjourney (Public Domain)
