Review by Monica Perdoni

Many would argue that a book discussing business and nature is something of an oxymoron, yet it’s to nature that Hutchins turns for insight on how the world of business can survive and even thrive in modern times.

Business models, systems and practices are examined alongside less obvious parallels, from reverential ecology to Gaia theory. Hutchins has a succinct tone with which he shares a strong understanding of why we need to look to Gaia’s inherent wisdom to flourish.

“Nature’s ‘business principles’ do not seek to reduce organisational behaviour to biology; rather, they suggest a set of behaviours and qualities that simply echo the law of Earth’s systems upon which our lives and businesses depend. They recognise the complexity of human nature and are neither a model nor a theory, but rather a philosophy that reminds us that while humans are a special species on Earth, we are still part of nature and subject to its law.”

Astute quotes from Albert Einstein to Peter Owen-Jones are peppered throughout the book, offering illuminative explanations of abstract philosophical and spiritual systems of thought on why exactly we need to create real change in our world.

And as for those who like a bit of grit with their economical theory, Hutchins makes the irrefutable observation: “If we do not conduct our business within the constraints of the system, we will inevitably go out of business.”

The Nature of Business: Redesigning for Resilience by Giles Hutchins is published by Green Books