The Evolving Science Association

In 2016 the Myrin Institute and the Nature Institute joined forces in a new, collaborative enterprise called the Evolving Science Association. The Nature Institute seeks to develop new research, publications, and educational programs, that creates a new paradigm capable of embracing nature's wisdom in shaping a sustainable and healthy future.

The two organizations have jointly resolved to promote holistic scientific practice that is receptive to the manifold voices of nature in all their variety. Such an evolution of science involves the development of human capacities through which we discover ourselves in nature and nature in ourselves. This enables us to rise above both materialism and the temptation to treat natural phenomena merely as occasions for manipulation. Building on the achievements of both organizations and the synergies of collaboration, the Association aims to strengthen the foundations of holistic knowing and to expand its reach into broader culture.

The Evolving Science Association will, among other things, offer conferences, do fundamental research, train young researchers, and produce publications. Program decisions will be made by the four members of the Association. The members from the Myrin Institute are George Russell, an emeritus professor of biology with forty-five years of teaching experience at Adelphi University on Long Island, New York, and Mark Gardner, an independent researcher and student of the history and philosophy of science. The Nature Institute is represented by its director, Craig Holdrege, and senior researcher Stephen L. Talbott.

Programs in which the Association participated include:

• The 2016 week-long summer institute at The Nature Institute, entitled “Tending the Roots of Sustainability: The Significance of Experience-Based Learning and Our Responsibility to Children and the Earth”.

• Creation of the “Educating for Sustainability” resource on The Nature Institute’s website.

• The Foundation Course in Goethean Science