Neo-symbiosis: a system design philosophy for diversity and enrichment

Neo-symbiosis is an updating and elaboration of the notion of symbiosis advanced by Licklider in 1960. Licklider argued that new levels of cognition could be reached by promoting a partnership between human brains and computing machines. Recent developments in both computer technology and theoretical psychology have advanced to the point where the level of symbiosis envisioned by Licklider could become a reality. A theoretical framework is presented for advancing neo-symbiosis. Neo-symbiosis provides an overarching view that pushes the envelope on what technology can do for homo sapiens. It is a concept that both enhances productivity and results in job enrichment. The ramifications of this for business and industry are developed and discussed. The conclusion addresses the benefits of and challenges for neo-symbiosis.Relevance to IndustryNeo-symbiosis is a conceptual tool that should leverage human potential and reduce human errors through the design of industrial systems and processes. It offers the means to both increase industrial productivity and to increase the well-being and satisfaction of staff and employees. It deals with automation in a manner that benefits both staff and management. It also provides a means of addressing and ameliorating diversity issues.