Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds

Chapter 3 explores the fractal element and what fractal work consists of on a personal level as well as in organizing work. The author reiterates the significance of small-scale actions and their potential to reverberate on a larger scale using Fibonacci patterns as an example. This mathematical sequence is often called “nature’s code” because it is commonly found in varied natural elements, from the shape of galaxies to the smallest of plants. brown associates the universality of phenomena such as this one with the possibility of enacting structural change through relatively small acts.

Drawing from her experiences and observations, brown first discusses fractal work on the individual level by reflecting on her experiences in electoral organizing in 2004. At the time, the author noticed the link between small and large systems and patterns after observing how community members struggled to embody the core principles of democracy at the local level. This realization made her more critical of social organizing but also of her own role in the field. She shares her personal journey of embracing collaboration and reframing failure as growth and highlights the transformative impact it had on her life and well-being.

Moving beyond the individual level, brown explores the application of fractal work in organizing efforts.