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Plenary Session
"Nature May Be Terrific, But is She Worth Copying?" The technologies of nature and humans form distinct, internally coherent enterprises. Each does some things especially well, using methods not easily available to the other. Claims that nature has tried everything should be dismissed as anti-technological prejudice--many of our best devices have no natural analogs. Copying nature has a mixed history but quite a promising future as a source of general ideas and guidance rather than specific models. In that sense, looking at a technology other than the one we've contrived can be instructive, even liberating. Steven Vogel received his BS from Tufts University in 1961, graduating magna cum laude, and his doctorate from Harvard University in 1966. He then joined the Duke University faculty, where he is now James B. Duke Professor of Biology. A biologist by training and inclination, Vogel has focused his work on the ways in which biological design reflects fluid dynamic factors: for instance, the aerodynamic problems of especially small insects; convective cooling of broad leaves in near-still air, and drag-minimization devices of the same leaves in storm-level winds; ways in which organisms from sponges to burrowing rodents can use velocity gradients to induce flows through themselves or their domiciles; and ways in which organisms such as squid and whales use flow-induced pressures to re-expand their mantle and oral cavities. He has written articles for a variety of popular
magazines and several books. The latter includes a textbook
on biological fluid dynamics (Life in Moving Fluids),
a more general book on biomechanics (Life's Devices),
and a less academic book on circulatory systems (Vital Circuits).
His most recent books explore the intersections of biomechanics,
human technology, and human culture: Cats' Paws and Catapults
compares the mechanical technologies of humans and nature, while
Prime Mover looks at how the characteristics of muscle
as an engine have shaped human history and prehistory. HQ Contact Information:
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