Walking Leaf - Simulation in Old nature


Almost by default, we associate simulation with modern media: games and virtual reality. But what about the Phyllium giganteum? It is not a leaf but an insect disguised as one. This "walking leaf" demonstrates some of the most remarkable mimicry in the entire natural kingdom. But it is surely no accident. Countless other insects, flowers, and animals use camouflage or imitation techniques to increase their chances of survival. Simulation seems to be a natural phenomenon in life.


From our Fake for Real series.

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7 comments

  • It's only Natural.

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  • GROSS

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  • Hello, i'm doing a report on this bug, please tell me more facts.

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  • =A=

    https://nextnature.net/?p=168

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  • pose! good!

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  • Sean, you say the goal of simulation is to become more real than real. I'd say that is a side affect, not a goal. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Wikipedia definition of simulation: "A simulation is an imitation of some real thing, state of affairs, or process. The act of simulating something generally entails representing certain key characteristics or behaviours of a selected physical or abstract system." Historically, the word had negative connotations: "…for Distinction Sake, a Deceiving by Words, is commonly called a Lye, and a Deceiving by Actions, Gestures, or Behavior, is called Simulation… " Robert South (1643–1716)

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  • The difference is one of degree: with mimicry, biological species approximate as closely as possible that which they are trying to imitate. With simulation, as Baudrillard reminds us, the goal is to become more real than the real -- in other words, hyperreal. So while simulating may be a natural phenomenon in life, we have shattered any claims to a natural limit in approximation once we move into the cultural realm.

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