Architecture, space and information in constructions built by humans and social insects: A conceptual review

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-19-2018

Abstract

The similarities between the structures built by social insects and by humans have led to a convergence of interests between biologists and architects. This new, de facto interdisciplinary community of scholars needs a common terminology and theoretical framework in which to ground its work. In this conceptually oriented review paper, we review the terms ‘information’, ‘space’ and ‘architecture’ to provide definitions that span biology and architecture. A framework is proposed on which interdisciplinary exchange may be better served, with the view that this will aid better cross-fertilization between disciplines, working in the areas of collective behaviour and analysis of the structures and edifices constructed by non-humans; and to facilitate how this area of study may better contribute to the field of architecture. We then use these definitions to discuss the informational content of constructions built by organisms and the influence these have on behaviour, and vice versa. We review how spatial constraints inform and influence interaction between an organism and its environment, and examine the reciprocity of space and information on construction and the behaviour of humans and social insects. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Interdisciplinary approaches for uncovering the impacts of architecture on collective behaviour’.

Identifier

85049368168 (Scopus)

Publication Title

Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences

External Full Text Location

https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2017.0244

e-ISSN

14712970

ISSN

09628436

PubMed ID

29967305

Issue

1753

Volume

373

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS