The Philosophy of Symbiosis

by Kisho Kurokawa

Symbiosis, as defined by Kisho Kurokawa, one of Japan's leading architects, is a new way of interpreting today's culture. A philosophy which takes its name from ecological and biological concepts, it puts forward ideals developed from traditional Japanese philosophy and culture, while continually acknowledging the presence of the multivalent, contemporary world. It is a philosophy of "both-and" rather than "either-or", a practice of mix-and-match rather than creation from scratch, an ethic of inclusion rather than exclusion. As such, it is thought to be one of the most essential statements of post-modern culture to date. Kurokawa feels that we will recognize each other's differing personalities while competing and will co-operate while we oppose and criticize each other.

Genres: Philosophy, Architecture

293 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Rhys · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kurokawa explores the features of Japanese art, culture, and architecture and shares the concepts of: "Ma (interval in time of space); Engawa (veranda); the concept of Senu hima, the moment of silence between acting and acting as described by Zeami in his treatises on the Noh drama; street space; Rikyu grey; permeability = transparency; lattices; and Hanasuki" in his pursuit of symbiosis and the notion of intermediary space. The concepts are rich in metaphor, and 'intermediary space' evokes anarchistic ideas like a Temporary Autonomous Zone (TAZ) by Hakim Bey and 'cruel optimism' by Lauren Berlant.

"The second condition necessary to achieve symbiosis is the presence of intermediary space. Intermediary space is so important because it allows the two opposing elements of a dualism to abide by common rules, to reach a common understanding. I call this a tentative understanding. Intermediary space does not exist as a definite thing. It is extremely tentative and dynamic. The presence of intermediate space makes possible a dynamic, vibrant symbiosis that incorporates opposition."

[katbel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great to get a general overview over a visionary alternativ to modernist (Western) architecture.
Includes some interesting philosophical and cultural thoughts, but at times leans more toward poetic abstraction than practical application. While Kurokawa’s ideas inspire, they can feel underdeveloped when it comes to how symbiosis might translate into large-scale urban systems or policy frameworks. Still, this work is an interesting contribution to architectural theory for those seeking a posthuman and ecologically responsive ethic for design.