The Power of Play and Possibility with Nora Bateson
In this episode, I chat with Nora Bateson about the power of possibility—how it's woven through the connections between people, places, and organisms. Nora's work spans a range of fields, from art and filmmaking to writing and academia, and we explore how it intersects with the legacy of her father, Gregory Bateson.
We dive deep into systems thinking, the importance of play, and the ways modern life has become more disconnected, especially with the rise of AI and social media. Nora shares her thoughts on how these technologies can contribute to disconnection and why it's essential to nurture more sensory, analog ways of engaging with the world to truly appreciate life.
Along the way, we touch on intergenerational trauma, the impacts of colonial and industrial histories, and how rigid systems thinking limits our ability to imagine new possibilities. Nora also makes a powerful case for play—not as a frivolous distraction, but as a crucial survival tool and a way to navigate the complexities of today's world.
We discuss how play, humor, and improvisation can fuel creativity, resilience, and even revolution in the face of despair. This conversation is a reminder to stay grounded, foster real human connections, and embrace the ongoing practice of imagining new ways of being in the world.
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