The Hidden Connections; A Science for Sustainable Living.

CAPRA, Fritjof. The hidden connections; a science for sustainable living. Random House, Anchor. 300p. bibliog, index, c2002. 0-385-49472-6, $14.95. A

Fritjof Capra is the author of The Tao of Physics and The Web of Life, books that explore the interconnectedness of science with all of life. They were written during a period when other scientific writers were also considering "complexity theory" as opposed to traditional linear thinking. The Hidden Connection continues Capra's thoughts on complexity and the interconnectedness of all living things. For such a work it is easier to quote from the author: "My objective in the volume has been to develop a conceptual framework that integrates the biological, cognitive and social dimensions of life; a framework that enable us to adopt a systemic approach to some of the critical issues of our time. The analysis of living systems in terms of four interconnected perspectives--from, matter, process, and meaning--makes it possible to apply a unified understanding of life to phenomena in the realm of mater, as well as to phenomena in the realm of meaning." (p.261)

For those who are seeking a deeper understanding of how science and existence relate and are in the frame of mind to meditate on the ideas presented. The Hidden Connections will offer a great deal to think about. It will also offer a kind of hope: "[Hope] is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out." (p.268) Katherine Gillen, Libn., Luke AFB Lib., AZ