The Open Cybernetics and Systemics Journal, 2008, 2, 252-262
The ‘Cybernetic Cut’: Progressing from Description to Prescription in Systems Theory
The ‘Cybernetic Cut’: Progressing from Description to Prescription in Systems Theory
David L. Abel
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Primordial BioCybernetics/BioSemiotics, Program Director, The Gene Emergence Project, The Origin of Life Foundation, Inc. (A U.S. Science Foundation), 113 Hedgewood Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770-1610, USA
Abstract:
Howard Pattee championed the term “epistemic cut” to describe the symbol-matter, subject-object, genotype-phenotype distinction. But the precise point of contact between logical deductive formalisms and physicality still needs elucidation. Can information be physical? How does nonphysical mind arise from physicality to then establish formal control over that physicality (e.g., engineering feats, computer science)? How did inanimate nature give rise to an algorithmically organized, semiotic and cybernetic life? Both the practice of physics and life itself require traversing not only an epistemic cut, but a Cybernetic Cut. A fundamental dichotomy of reality is delineated. The dynamics of physicality (“chance and necessity”) lie on one side. On the other side lies the ability to choose with intent what aspects of ontological being will be preferred, pursued, selected, rearranged, integrated, organized, preserved, and used (cybernetic formalism).
Keywords: Bifurcation points, configurable switches, decision nodes, formalism, logic gates, biocybernetics, biosemiosis, biosemiotics, self-assembly, self-organization, sign systems, symbol systems.
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