Meaning: Gregory Bateson, an English anthropologist, social scientist, and cyberneticist, made a thought-provoking statement in the quote provided. In this quote, Bateson critiques the tendency in explanatory prose to use abstract concepts such as tension and energy to explain the genesis of patterns. He argues that such explanations are inappropriate or wrong. To fully understand the implications of this quote, it is essential to delve into Bateson's background, his theories, and the context in which this quote was made.

Gregory Bateson was a highly influential figure in the fields of anthropology, sociology, and communication theory. He is best known for his work on the theory of cybernetics, which explores the patterns of communication and interaction within systems. Bateson's interdisciplinary approach allowed him to draw connections between various fields, leading to his unique perspective on the nature of patterns and explanation.

In the quote provided, Bateson challenges the common practice of attributing the genesis of patterns to quantities of tension, energy, and other abstract concepts. This critique aligns with his broader philosophical stance on the limitations of linear, cause-and-effect explanations. Bateson believed that complex phenomena, such as patterns, could not be fully understood through reductionist approaches that rely solely on quantifiable factors.

Bateson's objection to invoking quantities of tension and energy in explanatory prose reflects his rejection of simplistic and mechanistic explanations for the genesis of patterns. He advocated for a more holistic and systemic understanding of patterns, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various elements within a system. According to Bateson, patterns emerge from the dynamic interplay of multiple factors, including feedback loops, communication processes, and context-specific interactions.

Furthermore, Bateson's critique can be interpreted as a rejection of anthropocentric biases in explanatory prose. By cautioning against the use of vague and anthropomorphized terms such as "whatnot," Bateson highlights the need for rigor and precision in scientific explanations. He encourages scholars to move beyond anthropocentric language and embrace a more nuanced and contextually sensitive approach to understanding patterns in nature and society.

In the context of Bateson's broader body of work, this quote aligns with his emphasis on the interconnectedness of mind, nature, and society. Bateson's concept of "pattern" extends beyond the realm of physical structures to encompass cognitive, social, and ecological processes. For Bateson, patterns are not static entities but dynamic configurations that arise from the complex interdependencies of systems at various levels of organization.

In conclusion, Gregory Bateson's quote challenges the conventional explanatory practices that rely on abstract quantities such as tension and energy to explain the genesis of patterns. By rejecting such explanations as inappropriate or wrong, Bateson advocates for a more systemic, contextually sensitive, and non-anthropocentric approach to understanding patterns in diverse domains. His critique reflects his broader philosophical stance on the limitations of reductionist and linear modes of explanation, emphasizing the interconnectedness and dynamic nature of patterns within complex systems. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing interdisciplinary perspectives and holistic frameworks when seeking to unravel the mysteries of patterns in nature and society.