Articles

Abstract:

The particular characteristics and moods of landscapes can be appropriately and recognisably described. But if we try to approach formative processes of landscapes analytically, we will insufficiently grasp and represent the complexity of the overall impression of a particular landscape. Therefore this article investigates the different qualities of ecosystems and landscapes as well as the question as to what extent a landscape can be regarded as an organism of a higher order. Important properties of systems, organisms and landscapes are discussed, the differences between systemic and organic thinking examined and clarified with examples. The character and beauty of a landscape present themselves as an actual observable picture of the genius loci, the organism of the landscape as its present, physical expression. Every place on earth is unique, yet with only natural development it has no degree of freedom. The uniqueness is thus a necessary but not sufficient condition for the individualisation of a place. A place only becomes individual when people manage it and modify it according to their ideas and needs, and thereby raise it from its naturally determined development to a climax stage. Engaging with a place on earth, in a way that is both more free and aware of responsibility, can lead to a new individualisation of the overall context of a landscape. A person’s actions through awareness of responsibility are limited to their areas of competence. We can therefore consider the individuality of a farm as a part of the landscape and develop it accordingly.