By James Bridle’s book is an amazing read. Bridle is truly a Renaissance man who takes a deep dive into exploring the complexity of intelligence. They (Bridle’s preferred pronoun) write about a rich world of intelligences in which human intelligence and AI are situated.
Bridle studied computer science and cognitive science at University College London and holds a master’s degree and served as Adjunct Professor in the Interactive Telecommunications Program at New York University. Bridle currently works as a writer, journalist, technologist and visual artist. Their research on intelligence for Ways of Being goes well beyond humans to include the intelligence of all life forms (including the miraculous octopus), the intelligence of ecosystems like the Ganges River (which now has civil rights recognized by the High Court of Uttarakhand in India), and AI intelligence which Bridle suggests may be the next evolutionary step for humans. While Bridle’s intellect is extraordinary, his writing is accessible and thought provoking.
This is a hopeful exploration of the evolution of intelligence in its myriad forms; Bridle points out the many places ‘outside the box’ to look for and appreciate the diversity of intelligence on Earth. It is full of amazing examples of the ways of knowing that humans have disregarded for all too long. Ways of Being can only multiply the awe that is already very much alive within many of us.
I first became aware of Bridle through this Krista Tippett interview: https://onbeing.org/programs/james-bridle-the-intelligence-singing-all-around-us/. Here’s a link to a NYT book review: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/28/books/review/ways-of-being-james-bridle.html.
Seasonal Reading 
Barbara, this sounds absolutely fascinating. Thanks for bringing it to our attention. I am especially intrigued by their willingness to consider the intelligence of ecosystems. This is definitely going on my to be read list!
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Where to begin? This book blew my mind. This book opened my mind. This book is way smarter than I am. This book presents a range of possibilities beyond anything I have ever contemplated. James Bridle gathers ideas about the intelligence of, well, everything, and posits the myriad ways we can work toward a more equitable, healthy, thriving planetary ecosystem as we begin to consider the vast range of intelligences beyond our own. Not just other mammals. Not just plant communities. Not just AI, but ALL OF THE MORE THAN HUMAN WORLD. All of it, down to lichen and rocks, down to single celled organisms. EVERYTHING.
A book well worth reading. A book worth re reading. Thank you so much, Barbara, for bringing it to our attention. Wow…
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I am so glad you think the book is as worthwhile as I do. I wish everyone would read it.
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As do I, Barbara. Should be required reading…
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