If you have any questions for the OXQ editorial team, please contact us at EDITOR@OXQ.ORG.UK
Q: I haven’t read beyond the first few pages [of this website], but this looks to me like some half-baked philosophical theory, full of generalisations and wishful thinking. In the pop-up questions on the Systems page, you mention Grief:‘Understanding grief through the lens of dynamic symmetry can provide new coping strategies that balance emotional stability and upheaval. Individuals using dynamic symmetry-based coping strategies will show improved emotional resilience and adaptability compared to those using traditional methods’ - presumably in an attempt to make people believe that a principle that perhaps conditions complex systems also influences something as intangible and abstract as Human emotions -but you present no evidence to support this.
A: Such a complex issue as the links between dynamic symmetry and grief can't be adequately explored within a few lines, but I will outline some key points. Dynamic symmetry offers valuable insights into coping with grief by viewing it as a non-linear process involving a continuous interplay between stability and emotional upheaval. This perspective suggests that the initial disorder following a loss is a necessary part of the healing process, allowing for the emergence of new patterns and structures. Grief is seen as a dynamic balance between order and disorder, with individuals oscillating between moments of calm and periods of intense emotion.
The theory emphasises that stability can coexist with disorder, encouraging individuals to find moments of peace amidst their grief without feeling guilty. It also highlights the importance of adaptability and flexibility in coping strategies. Dynamic symmetry views healing as an emergent process, arising from many small actions and interactions rather than a single solution. This approach challenges the notion of a "right" way to grieve, instead promoting a flexible balance between different elements based on changing needs. It suggests that periods of emotional upheaval can lead to growth and self-awareness, and that setbacks can be opportunities for recalibration. Ultimately, dynamic symmetry encourages a more nuanced, resilient approach to navigating the complexities of loss and healing.
Best wishes, Benedict Rattigan
Q: What’s the next step forward for OXQ and its theory of dynamic theory?
A: Hello Kate. Thank you for your interest in the future direction of OXQ and the advancement of dynamic symmetry theory. As the editor of the journal (and a proponent of dynamic symmetry!) I envision several key steps to further this theory into mainstream thought. Our mission at OXQ is to promote rigorous research, stimulate dialogue, and foster a diverse community of researchers, academics, and practitioners dedicated to exploring the potential of dynamic symmetry across various disciplines.
To achieve this, we will continue to publish research papers that highlight the applications and implications of dynamic symmetry in different fields. We plan to host interdisciplinary conferences and workshops to facilitate discussions and collaborations among experts from various domains. Additionally, we aim to develop educational resources and outreach programs to raise awareness and understanding of dynamic symmetry theory among a broader audience.
Our longer-term goal is to integrate dynamic symmetry into mainstream academic discourse, providing new insights and frameworks for understanding the intricate balance between order and chaos in natural and artificial systems.
Q: Are there any upcoming events or conferences focused on dynamic symmetry?
A: Yes, please see https://oxq.org.uk/conference The next OXQ conference will take place at Oxford on 2nd May 2025.
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