Pace Layering

Stewart Brand, from The Clock of the Long Now, 1999.

I propose six significant levels of pace and size in the working structure of a robust and adaptable civilization. ...

The division of powers among the layers of civilization allows us to relax about a few of our worries. We should not deplore rapidly changing technology and business while government controls, cultural mores, and so-called wisdom change slowly; that's their job. Also, we should not fear destabilizing positive-feedback loops ... crashing the whole system. The total effect of the pace layers is that they provide many-leveled corrective, stabilizing negative feedback throughout the system. It is precisely in the apparent contradictions of pace that civilization finds its surest health.

See: Panarchy

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