🌱🤖 Surrendering Control to the System
In Search of Regenerative Intelligence #23
Should you surrender to the system?
My gut screams “NO!!!”. But when I think more deeply about it, I realize that sometimes, surrendering to certain systems is exactly what we should do. In fact, it might even be the solution to some of the biggest challenges on Earth, if we learned to give in to the right systems while resisting the wrong ones.
“Surrendering Control to the System” is the theme for this newsletter. I’m not trying to cover every aspect of this vast topic. As always, I aim to keep it light and fresh while offering something truly nourishing for the curious and mindful reader. I think I’ve succeeded with these three fascinating takes, exploring systems through the lenses of AI, nature and human behavior.
1) Nell Watson on Agentic AI
Artificial Intelligence
Agentic AI is the next wave of artificial intelligence, following generative AI. In 2025 (and beyond), it will dominate discussions about technology and decision-making. Agentic AI doesn’t just assist, it takes action. Imagine it booking a holiday trip or managing a project for you. In the near future you could have a system of AI’s doing all sorts of tasks for you.
But as with any powerful tool, it raises critical questions:
When should humans retain control, and when should AI take over?
Are you certain you’ve set the right goals before unleashing an AI agent to execute them?
Nell Watson, a thought leader in AI and a dear friend, likens the rise of Agentic AI to the early days of air travel: a thrilling yet turbulent journey that requires adaptation, learning, and trust. Her insights offer a balanced view of this revolutionary technology, emphasizing both its promise and its potential pitfalls.
The game of embracing and resisting systems will only become more prominent in the coming years with Agentic AI. Watch Nell’s presentation and get up to speed on Agentic AI here:
2) The Biggest Little Farm
Natural Intelligence
Wow. This movie had an enormous impact on me. Recommended by Standup Philosopher Martijn Aslander (thanks, Martijn!), The Biggest Little Farm tells the story of two people attempting to create a regenerative farm—a self-sustaining agricultural system.
It’s not as simple as it sounds. The film beautifully illustrates the intricate balance of prey, predators, and natural systems, all captured through stunning nature shots. With an IMDB rating of 8.0, I’d call it a must-watch for anyone interested in systems thinking or nature.
This film offers a refreshing perspective on “Surrendering Control to the System,” showing how humans can coexist with—and thrive in—nature’s regenerative systems.
3) Bryan Johnson - Don’t Die
Human Intelligence
Bryan Johnson is on a mission to slow down, and maybe even stop, aging. His approach? Surrendering entirely to an algorithm he calls Blueprint.
With the help of a team of health experts, Johnson meticulously tracks every aspect of his life, spending over $2 million annually on this experiment. He measures hundreds of metrics daily, takes over 100 supplements, and follows rigorous routines, including red-light therapy, custom workouts, and a precisely regimented diet.
While his lifestyle may sound extreme, Johnson, who once battled chronic depression, insists he has never been happier. His journey inspires reflection:
Which behaviors, patterns, and systems in your life are serving you?
Which ones aren’t?
Explore Bryan’s take on surrendering to the system further:
Netflix Feature (January 2025)
That’s it for now. I hope there was some food for thought in there and I wish you the best adventures, thougth-provoking questions and exciting discoveries!