The form of these cacti is generated in a series of step-wise algorithms or “computations” that gauge their fit with their environment and with each other (including genetic adaptations over eons).

We find this form expressive and pleasurable, because it has the characteristics of a deeper pattern of emergent organization.

  • Salingaros, Nikos A., and Michael W. Mehaffy. "Ch 15. Computational Irreducibility" In Design for a Living Planet: Settlement, Science, & the Human Future. Design for a Living Planet: Settlement, Science, & the Human Future. Levellers/Sustasis Press and Vajra Publications, 2015. Digital Library
Calvin Teo

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  • "Figures." In Design for a Living Planet: Settlement, Science, & the Human Future. DFLAP. Levellers/Sustasis Press and Vajra Publications, 2015.
  • Mehaffy, Michael W., and Nikos Angelos Salingaros. "Ch 15. Computational Irreducibility." In Design for a Living Planet: Settlement, Science, & the Human Future, 156-164. Design for a Living Planet: Settlement, Science, & the Human Future. Levellers/Sustasis Press and Vajra Publications, 2015.