Meaning: The quote by Gregory Bateson addresses the importance of aligning our understanding of the world with the way we conduct our civilization and the actual functioning of living systems. Gregory Bateson was an influential figure in the fields of anthropology, psychology, and cybernetics, and his work often focused on the interconnectedness of systems and the need for a holistic approach to understanding the world.

The reference to the "Riddle of the Sphinx" in the quote alludes to the famous mythological creature from Greek mythology. The Sphinx was said to have posed a riddle to travelers, and those who could not answer it would be killed. The riddle was, "What goes on four legs in the morning, on two legs at noon, and on three legs in the evening?" The answer, of course, is "man," who crawls as a baby, walks on two legs as an adult, and uses a cane in old age. The significance of this reference lies in the idea that the riddle represents a fundamental question about the nature of humanity and the passage of time.

Bateson's emphasis on the importance of our answer to the Riddle of the Sphinx being in step with how we conduct our civilization suggests that our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world should inform the way we organize and govern society. He argues that our approach to civilization should be in harmony with the actual workings of living systems, indicating a need for a more ecologically and socially responsible approach to human society.

Furthermore, Bateson's reference to "the actual workings of living systems" underscores his belief in the interconnectedness of all living things and the need to understand and respect the complexities of natural systems. This aligns with his broader body of work, which emphasized the importance of ecological thinking and the interconnectedness of all living things.

The quote suggests that our understanding of the world and our approach to civilization should be informed by an appreciation for the intricate relationships and processes that sustain life. Bateson's holistic perspective challenges us to move beyond reductionist and compartmentalized views of the world and to instead embrace a more integrated and systemic understanding of reality.

In practical terms, this means that our societal, economic, and political systems should be designed and managed in ways that are consistent with the principles of ecological sustainability and social responsibility. It also implies a need for a shift away from approaches that prioritize short-term gains at the expense of long-term well-being, and a greater emphasis on fostering harmonious relationships between human societies and the natural world.

Bateson's quote can be seen as a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers to reevaluate their approaches to addressing the complex challenges facing humanity. It encourages us to consider the broader implications of our actions and decisions, and to strive for a more harmonious and sustainable coexistence with the natural world.

In conclusion, Gregory Bateson's quote serves as a reminder of the profound interconnectedness of all living systems and the imperative for our understanding and conduct as a civilization to be in alignment with this reality. It challenges us to adopt a more holistic and ecologically informed perspective in our approach to societal, economic, and environmental issues, and to prioritize the long-term health and sustainability of the planet and all its inhabitants.