The Ecology of Knowledge: How the Complexity Sciences Can Explain the Peculiar Alliance between Art and Philosophy

Abstract

Why is art allied with philosophy? Why are artists expected to be familiar with critical discursive practices? This paper sketches a naturalistic framework for approaching this problem by conceptualizing knowledge as a complex adaptive system. The author argues against a static image of the disciplines, as implied by Biglan’s typology, and proposes an evolving understanding of disciplinary dynamics. Based on this framework, the author suggests that art and philosophy form a communication niche maintained primarily through the positions of the critic and curator. The author questions the usefulness of this bond and advocates for the free exploration of the ecology of knowledge.