Famous quote by David Bohm

"But the way people commonly use the word nowadays it means something all of whose parts are mutually interdependent - not only for their mutual action, but for their meaning and for their existence"

About this Quote

David Bohm's quote explores an intricate understanding of the idea of interconnectedness, reflecting an extensive viewpoint on how parts of a whole connect to each other. Bohm suggests that in modern usage, the term in question, maybe a term like "system" or "organism", indicates a deep level of interdependence among its components. This isn't simply about physical or practical interdependence, like how automobile parts work together to allow transport. Rather, Bohm is explaining that the mutual reliance likewise reaches the existential and meaningful levels.

The phrase "all of whose parts are mutually interdependent" suggests that every constituent part affects and is affected by all others. This indicates a specific level of intricacy where no single part can be separated without affecting the whole system. It's a holistic view suggesting that the identity of each part is specified by its relationship with the whole. For example, in an ecosystem, the survival of one types is connected to others; plants, animals, and microbes are all integral to the environment's health.

Bohm further extends this notion by saying that this interdependence is not only necessary "for their shared action" but also "for their significance and for their existence". In other words, the existence of each part gains significance only when considered within the context of the greater framework. This can be applied to social systems also, where people discover identity and purpose within the larger social structure. The significance of our actions and roles shifts based upon the context provided by the whole to which we belong.

Eventually, Bohm is prompting a shift in point of view-- from seeing parts in isolation to recognizing the extensive interconnectedness that specifies their essence. This approach invites us to consider the dynamic, interwoven nature of truths, whether in natural systems, human societies, or any structure made up of interrelated parts, where the interplay is important not simply for performance, but for defining the extremely essence of being.

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About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by David Bohm between December 20, 1917 and October 27, 1992. He/she was a famous Scientist from USA. The author also have 26 other quotes.
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