Arrangements Quote by John Hughlings Jackson
“The doctrine of evolution implies the passage from the most organised to the least organised, or, in other terms, from the most general to the most special. Roughly, we say that there is a gradual 'adding on' of the more and more special, a continual adding on of new organisations. But this 'adding on' is at the same time a 'keeping down'. The higher nervous arrangements evolved out of the lower keep down those lower, just as a government evolved out of a nation controls as well as directs that nation.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Evolution of the Nervous System, John Hughlings Jackson, 1874
Evolution adds complexity while preserving earlier structures, creating hierarchical organization where higher levels control lower ones.
In simple terms: Complexity builds on simpler parts, yet retains them.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how new layers build on and regulate older ones.
Themes
hierarchy
control
complexity
evolution
systems
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
theoretical
explanatory
When to use this quote
- Organizational design
- software architecture
- education curriculum
- government policy
- personal development
Key Concepts
Neuroscience
systems theory
biological hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance new ideas with existing structures?
- What mechanisms prevent lower levels from being overly constrained?
A Different Perspective
Higher levels can suppress innovation from lower levels if not balanced.
