ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at how new complex systems can emerge from non-linear field interactions, where feedback loops replace simple linear cause-and-effect chains. Evolution is inherently non-linear, because each living species provides a part of the environment for the others in its locality. Darwinian evolution is a good place to start our exploration, because it is such a clear example of the power of non-linear relationships. Random neural connections plus the feedback loops in the caring environment produces a brain predisposing to a particular character that fits that environment. The chapter describes three different interactions that provide this non-linearity. They are evolution, early neural development and intersubjectivity. In the discussions of evolution and early neural development, the chapter emphasises the way in which randomness moulded by feedback produces order. It then explores the clinical applications of the theory for psychotherapy, the underlying philosophy and case examples.
