Abstracts Biological Sciences

Symbiosis

by Brian Kelly Burke

"Look not to the stable possession of truth, or of power itself,... one should decipher in it a network of relations, constantly in tension, in activity." M. Foucault, 1979 All elements exist in relationships of varying degrees. These engagements are considered symbiotic when there is an intimate understanding and exchange of each other's values which govern their associations. Those biological interrelationships which evolve reciprocally require a heightened level of cyclical communication necessary for their coexistence. This ongoing dance between symbiotic organisms is a similar choreography required for the ascendancy of inanimate collaborations. Bionics are the next tier in symbiotic relationships where at least one of the symbiotes is artificial. Recently, the trajectory of bionics has changed from one satisfied to emulate nature, to one that aims to extend nature beyond its original capabilities. The profession of architecture should consider this mindset. Like the oscillation found between biological symbiotes, adaptability remains paramount in preserving the interrelationships within these hybrid systems. However, unlike the natural course of biological symbiosis, it is the designer which negotiates the level of influence each participant will bring to the union of an artificial coevolution. This thesis is an investigation into a valve system within the grey zones of these symbiotic relationships.