Carrying capacity, envisioned through the lens of Nora Bateson’s symbiotic and holistic worldview, can be described as the dynamic equilibrium of a system’s capacity to sustain life, maintaining a delicate balance amidst the intricate webs of interdependence. Beyond mere numbers or fixed metrics, it is a fluid mosaic of ecological, social, and cultural interactions, continually shaped by the contexts and relationships within which life flourishes or falters. This concept acknowledges the limits and potentials of ecosystems to support diverse communities, while embracing the ever-adapting, co-evolving nature of living systems. Recognizing carrying capacity is not just about understanding constraints; it is also about appreciating the rich, emergent symphony of life, where resilience and adaptability play vital roles in co-creating sustainable futures.

See also: ecology, complexity, systems theory, relationship, systems change