Instead of building more megastructures — which constantly consume time, energy, and human and natural resources — should we not follow a more natural, biological approach to architecture that would foster small but comprehensive clusters of settlements and perhaps create a new world?

These smaller settlements would be sustainable and replicable. They would be full of energy and vitality, but they would not grow beyond a certain size. They would possess the same virtues as a bio-diverse network.

Such settlements would not waste time or energy or natural resources. The inhabitants would have global skills and a suitable, fulfilling lifestyle. This, as a result, could help salvage our planet from the present disasters and disparities that spawn anxiety and doubt about the future.

Often while visiting ancient towns and cities, which are socially, economically and culturally well-knit, we are struck by a strange, unexpected silence and slowness. Our desire to push, to achieve, to conquer dwindles, and we think more of how nature connects us and how we can share and revere our intrinsic selves.

In addition to such quietude, other aesthetic measures of settlements include grace, love, compassion and humility.

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