In this Commentary session, I dive into this fascinating paper by Miguel-Tomé and Llinás, where they propose expanding our definition of the nervous system to include plants.
You know how much arguing there has been at even the hint of recognizing plants as having a nervous system, even though researching continues to show this. By broadening this definition, these scientists open themselves up to a more inclusive and evolved understanding of how multicellular beings—both plants and animals—transmit, process, and adapt to their environments.
This redefinition breaks down the outdated notion that plants are somehow inferior to animals due to the absence of a “traditional” nervous system. Instead, it invites us to see the complex, adaptive beings plants are with their own unique signaling mechanisms. This shift in perspective, I hope, will help show even more clearly the intelligence of plants and how evolution has shaped their responses to their surroundings, without starting from a place of human superiority.
This discussion is more than just academic—it’s a reminder that adaptation and awareness go far beyond our human-centered viewpoints. Plants can teach us about resilience and flow, showing us new ways to navigate and evolve in our own lives.
Commentary on nervous system within Naturally Conscious Community:
LIVE Plant Consciousness Commentary every Friday
Where we explore all things plant neurobiology, plant cognition, plant intelligence, plant humanities, and the birth of critical plant studies through the lens of personal evolution. Livestreams are every Friday on Youtube and the Naturally Conscious Community.
Be a part of the conversation in the Naturally Conscious Community
Let’s talk more in the only online ecosystem that nourishes plant reawakening for enhanced evolution and collaboration with our plant friends. Connect with nature-conscious creatives, multipotentialites, and naturentrepreneurs who share your desire to see beauty in the world. >> JOIN OUR COMMUNITY <<
Looking for a mentor/coach to help you confidently embody a Naturally Conscious Life? Book a discovery call here, and let’s discuss how I can support you.
Miguel-Tomé, S., & Llinás, R. R. (2021). Broadening the definition of a nervous system to better understand the evolution of plants and animals. Plant signaling & behavior, 16(10), 1927562. https://doi.org/10.1080/15592324.2021.1927562
If you have a paper, essay, article, or video you would like me to comment on, send it to me!
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Tigrilla Gardenia
Broadening the definition of a nervous system
In this Commentary session, I dive into this fascinating paper by Miguel-Tomé and Llinás, where they propose expanding our definition of the nervous system to include plants.
You know how much arguing there has been at even the hint of recognizing plants as having a nervous system, even though researching continues to show this. By broadening this definition, these scientists open themselves up to a more inclusive and evolved understanding of how multicellular beings—both plants and animals—transmit, process, and adapt to their environments.
This redefinition breaks down the outdated notion that plants are somehow inferior to animals due to the absence of a “traditional” nervous system. Instead, it invites us to see the complex, adaptive beings plants are with their own unique signaling mechanisms. This shift in perspective, I hope, will help show even more clearly the intelligence of plants and how evolution has shaped their responses to their surroundings, without starting from a place of human superiority.
This discussion is more than just academic—it’s a reminder that adaptation and awareness go far beyond our human-centered viewpoints. Plants can teach us about resilience and flow, showing us new ways to navigate and evolve in our own lives.
Commentary on nervous system within Naturally Conscious Community:
LIVE Plant Consciousness Commentary every Friday
Where we explore all things plant neurobiology, plant cognition, plant intelligence, plant humanities, and the birth of critical plant studies through the lens of personal evolution. Livestreams are every Friday on Youtube and the Naturally Conscious Community.
Be a part of the conversation in the Naturally Conscious Community
Let’s talk more in the only online ecosystem that nourishes plant reawakening for enhanced evolution and collaboration with our plant friends. Connect with nature-conscious creatives, multipotentialites, and naturentrepreneurs who share your desire to see beauty in the world. >> JOIN OUR COMMUNITY <<
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Looking for a mentor/coach to help you confidently embody a Naturally Conscious Life? Book a discovery call here, and let’s discuss how I can support you.
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References
Miguel-Tomé, S., & Llinás, R. R. (2021). Broadening the definition of a nervous system to better understand the evolution of plants and animals. Plant signaling & behavior, 16(10), 1927562. https://doi.org/10.1080/15592324.2021.1927562
If you have a paper, essay, article, or video you would like me to comment on, send it to me!
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