There is a simple and compelling truth established by the sciences: universal reality is a system of systems, and all life within it exists only in relationship and interdependence with its surroundings. This conclusion is not just philosophical speculation; it is supported by disciplines such as physics, biology, and complex systems theory. Denying this reality has contributed directly to human suffering, social turmoil, and ecological crises, which continue to threaten our collective future.
The observable universe, from subatomic particles to galaxies and biospheres, is characterized by nested systems that interact and rely on each other. No organism survives in isolation. Biological studies show that species rely on their ecosystems for nutrients, energy, and stability. Societies mirror this dependence: individuals flourish only because of supportive networks and institutions, while communities experience well-being when cooperation and mutual care outweigh conflict.
Quantum physics illustrates how particles remain linked regardless of geographic separation. This scientific fact provides a model for understanding human social interaction. Complex systems science explains why communities and organizations manifest behaviors and properties that cannot be reduced to the sum of individual actions. Evolutionary biology has established that survival is entirely contingent on environmental and inter-species relationships. Denying these connections is not merely academic error; it has produced documented catastrophes, from genocides fueled by scarcity and competition to climate change resulting from shortsighted individualism.
Specific historical and scientific examples make the case undeniable. In Rwanda and during the Holocaust, denial of interdependence and social responsibility led to unspeakable suffering. Economic and cultural research shows that societies which ignore the necessity of cooperation suffer more poverty and violence. Modern environmental crises such as climate change are rooted in the mis-belief that one’s actions occur in a vacuum.
The only way forward is to acknowledge our interdependence as a fundamental reality, shaping policy, relationships, and culture accordingly. Our biosphere’s fragility is a reminder that rejecting or neglecting these scientific facts imperils not just well-being but the survival of civilization itself.
References:
Singh, A. V. (2005). In Search of the Universal Reality and Purpose – A Scientific Approach. Metanexus Institute. http://metanexus.net/archive/conference2005/pdf/avtar_singh.pdf
Lawless, W. F., Moskowitz, I. S., & Doctor, K. Z. (2023). A Quantum-like Model of Interdependence for Embodied Human–Machine Teams: Reviewing the Path to Autonomy Facing Complexity and Uncertainty. Entropy, 25(9), 1323. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10528279/
Stewart, A. J., Pilgrim, C., & Raihani, N. J. (2024). Resolving selfish and spiteful interdependent conflict. Proc Biol Sci, 291(2020), 20240295. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11003781/
Wilkinson, R. (2005). The Impact of Social Forces on Human Suffering. SpringerBriefs in Sociology. http://users.soc.umn.edu/~rea/documents/Preprint%20of%20Human%20Suffering%20SpringerBrief%20v5%2013june13.pdf
Unifying Universal Disciplines towards a General System Theory, Rational Understanding. (2025, March 4). https://rational-understanding.com/2025/03/05/unifying-universal-disciplines-towards-a-general-system-theory/.rational-understanding+4