Benoit Mandelbrot: 'Where do I really belong? I avoid saying everywhere - which switches all too easily to nowhere. Instead, when pressed, I call myself a fractalist.'

Where do I really belong? I avoid saying everywhere - which switches all too easily to nowhere. Instead, when pressed, I call myself a fractalist.

Benoit Mandelbrot, the father of fractal geometry, once pondered, "Where do I really belong? I avoid saying everywhere - which switches all too easily to nowhere. Instead, when pressed, I call myself a fractalist." At first glance, this quote seems rather straightforward, as Mandelbrot simply identifies himself as a seeker of fractals. Fractals, those intricate and infinitely self-repeating patterns found in nature and mathematics, have fascinated scientists and artists alike. However, delving deeper into this quote opens up a world of philosophical contemplation about one's sense of belonging and the interconnectivity of all things.Mandelbrot's self-proclaimed "fractalist" identity holds profound meaning and importance. It represents his inclination to see the world through a unique lens, one that goes beyond the conventional labels and boundaries imposed by society. By identifying himself as a fractalist, he refuses to be confined to a specific realm or category, embracing a more holistic perspective that spans disciplines.One could argue that the concept of being a fractalist raises questions about the nature of identity itself. In a world that constantly seeks to categorize and label individuals, Mandelbrot's self-identification challenges the notion of fixed identities. It suggests that people are not simply one thing or another, but rather a blend of various influences and perspectives.Perhaps, at its core, Mandelbrot's quote alludes to the fundamental interconnectedness of everything in the universe. Fractals exemplify this interconnectedness, as they exist both on a macro and micro scale, repeating patterns at various levels of magnification. In a similar vein, human beings are interconnected with the world around them, influencing and being influenced by their surroundings.When we delve into the philosophy behind Mandelbrot's quote, we encounter the concept of panpsychism. Panpsychism is the belief that consciousness is a fundamental feature of the universe, imbuing everything with some level of awareness. It suggests that not only living beings, but also inanimate objects and abstract concepts possess consciousness to some degree.By embracing a fractalist identity, Mandelbrot indirectly touches upon the idea that the universe itself is a fractal. If we accept panpsychism, then every part of the fractal universe possesses some degree of consciousness. This concept challenges traditional notions of identity and belonging, suggesting that we are not isolated entities, but rather intimately connected to the broader web of existence.In a society that often emphasizes individualism and compartmentalization, Mandelbrot's fractalist approach prompts us to question our own sense of belonging. Instead of identifying rigidly with one particular group or ideology, can we adopt a more fluid and inclusive perspective? Can we see ourselves as part of a grand fractal, with all its complexity and interconnectedness?By finding our place within the fractal universe, we gain a profound sense of belonging that transcends the limitations of conventional labels. We become open to the beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world, appreciating the intricate patterns that repeat themselves throughout the cosmos. Like Mandelbrot, we can see ourselves as fractalists, embracing a perspective that acknowledges the multidimensionality and unity of all things.In conclusion, Benoit Mandelbrot's quote, "Where do I really belong? I avoid saying everywhere - which switches all too easily to nowhere. Instead, when pressed, I call myself a fractalist," encapsulates the essence of his identity and worldview. Besides his affinity for fractals, his self-identification challenges conventional notions of identity and belonging. It invites us to explore the interconnectedness of the universe and consider our place within its grand tapestry. By adopting a fractalist perspective, we can transcend the limitations of fixed identities and embrace a more fluid and inclusive understanding of ourselves and the world around us.