Perfect Order: A Thousand Years in Bali | Stephen Lansing

TL;DR

The Balinese water temple network is a complex adaptive system that uses synchronized cropping and rituals to maintain the ecological balance of rice cultivation. It has similarities to other complex systems, such as market networks, but requires cooperation and adherence to cultural practices.

Transcript

good evening I'm Stuart brand from the long now foundation well a person I spent a lot of time paying attention to is Gregory Bateson and his wife Margaret Mead I knew Gregory better back in the 1930s when they had been infected by what was brand-new cybernetic theory the idea of feedback they went to Bali in as Steven Lansing was just telling me t... Read More

Key Insights

• 💦 The Balinese water temple network is a complex adaptive system that relies on synchronized cropping and water management to optimize rice cultivation.
• 💦 The network is organized through a hierarchy of water temples, which act as decision-making and ritual centers.
• 💦 The system balances the trade-off between pests and water availability, resulting in sustainable rice cultivation for centuries.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the Balinese water temple network prevent free riders and ensure cooperation among farmers?

The water temple network uses rituals and social norms to encourage cooperation among farmers. By emphasizing the importance of synchronized cropping and the shared benefits of pest control, farmers are motivated to adhere to the system and contribute to its maintenance. Additionally, the network has mechanisms to address defunct or non-compliant subaks.

Q: Are there similar systems to the Balinese water temple network in other parts of the world?

There may be similar systems in other parts of the world, such as in China, the Philippines, Nepal, and throughout Asia, where synchronized cropping and pest control are common practices in rice cultivation. However, further research is needed to understand the specific dynamics and structures of these systems.

Q: How does the Balinese water temple network cope with eco maniacs and sociopaths?

The water temple network relies on the cultural practices and social norms of the Balinese community. While cases of non-compliance or misbehavior may occur, the network has mechanisms in place to address these issues. It relies on trust and cooperation among participants, and societal pressures and rituals help maintain adherence to the system's principles.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Balinese water temple network is a system of synchronized cropping and water management in rice paddies to control pests and ensure water availability.

• The network is organized through a hierarchy of water temples, where democratic decisions are made and rituals are performed.

• This system relies on the coordination of multiple scales, from individual farmers to the entire network, to optimize the trade-off between pests and water.