Agency Quote by Stuart Kauffman
“It is my belief that we need a new transnational sustaining 'myth' that can impart value and respect. It is my further belief that we are coming to see our universe and life as creative, without a directing agency. Meaning emerges with life. If this view becomes widespread, it has the promise to become the sustaining myth we need to sustain in turn an emerging global civilization.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Reweaving the World: The Emergence of a Scientific Humanism, 2011
A new global myth should arise from a view of the universe as creative, without a directing agency, to give meaning and cohesion to civilization.
In simple terms: A creative, agency‑free view can become a unifying myth.
Key Takeaway
Embrace a science‑based myth for global unity.
Themes
meaning
myth
global civilization
science
creativity
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education reform
- international policy
- cultural narratives
- environmental activism
Key Concepts
Emergentism
secular humanism
systems theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a secular myth inspire collective purpose?
- What values would it prioritize?
A Different Perspective
May lack emotional resonance for many; risk of relativism.
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
