Warm Data Lab

How can we embrace chaos to discover the order that joins us?

Symmathesy

The Warm Data Labs, developed by Nora Bateson, are a pioneering methodology for addressing human and social systems from an integrated and relational perspective. Unlike traditional approaches that analyze data in a fragmented way, the Warm Data Labs propose a holistic exploration that considers relationships and interconnections that support systems. Bateson introduces the concept of Symmathesy, which describes the process of mutual learning within a living system. This implies that not only the parts of a system are connected, but these interactions are continually educational and transformative.

Warm Data Labs offer spaces where participants can unravel relationships that structure complex systems, exploring invisible patterns, emotions and narratives that often go unnoticed. This process allows a deeper understanding of systemic dynamics, promoting the identification of latent tensions and unlocking new perspectives.

These laboratories are also based on the concept of Aphanipoiesis, which refers to the emergence of hidden and dynamic patterns that, although not immediately visible, have a profound impact on the system. By creating spaces where these dynamics can emerge and be recognized, the Warm Data Labs help communities understand and address complexity in a way that respects multiplicity and interconnections.

Immersion in hot data

The Warm Data Labs have their roots in the theory of systemic complexity and thought, with a strong influence from the work of Gregory Bateson, father of Nora Bateson. The methodology focuses on the concept of transcontextual context, which highlights how the different dimensions of a system – social, ecological, cultural and economic – interact and report each other. This perspective breaks with linear and fragmentary approaches, offering a tool to address complex problems requiring integral solutions.

The concept of Submerging, also key in this methodology, refers to the need to completely dive into the system, leaving aside the previous assumptions and opening up to a direct experience of its dynamics. Rather than trying to control or predict the system from outside, the submerging process allows participants to connect with the relationships and interdependencies that make up the system, generating a living and relational understanding.

Scholarly, the Warm Data Labs have been studied and applied in fields as diverse as public health, education, urban regeneration and community management. This methodology has proven to be a powerful tool to facilitate systemic transformation processes, offering spaces for collective reflection and the co-creation of solutions adapted to context. Research on Warm Data Labs highlights its ability to foster complex thinking and significant collaboration in highly interconnected environments.

Aphanipoiesis

In Resilience Earth, we have integrated the Warm Data Labs principles to accompany local communities, organizations and governments in transformation processes. This methodology has become an essential tool to address the complexity and uncertainty inherent in social and ecological systems. Inspired by the concept of Symmathesy, we focus our efforts on facilitating mutual learning between the parts of a system, encouraging relationships that promote collaboration and regeneration.

The Submerging process is fundamental in the spaces we provide. In these laboratories, we encourage participants to set aside their predefined perspectives and to fully immerse themselves in the dynamics of the system. This allows hidden relational patterns to emerge, in line with the concept of Aphanipoiesis, which helps us to reveal possibilities that were previously unobvious. These emerging dynamics are key to unlock new ways of transformation and regeneration.

Through the Warm Data Labs, we have facilitated processes where communities have been able to recognize their interconnections, identify latent tensions and develop collaborative solutions adapted to their specific needs. With this approach, Resilience Earth continues to promote social and ecological regeneration, helping communities navigate complexity with creativity and cohesion.