The Ecosystem Complex A New Approach in Specifying the Man-Environment Relationship
Frederick H. Rohles
DOI: 10.2190/H6PA-X424-RMVT-MJHV
Abstract
A three-dimensional paradigm is suggested for defining the relationships between an organism and its environment. Called The Ecosystem Complex, its constituents fall into three main classes: 1) Physical factors which are used to define the physical environment include sound, light, area-volume, radiation, inspired gas, atmospheric pressure, force field, air movement, and temperature and relative humidity; 2) Organismic factors which are used to define the organism within the physical environment include age, sex, rhythmicity, psyche, drive, body-type, sensory processes, and genetics; and 3) Reciprocative factors which enable the organism to adapt to the physical environment include diet, clothing, exposure time, social variables, incentive, and activity. Together, these variables and their dynamic interactions must be defined or otherwise specified when determining the effects of the environment on health (physiology), behavior, or affectivity. The potential of the paradigm for use by life-scientists, engineers, planners, and architects is discussed.
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