---
link: https://jods.mitpress.mit.edu/pub/issue3-brand/release/2
title: "Pace Layering: How Complex Systems Learn and Keep Learning"
permalink: /notes/pace-layering/
author:
  - Stewart Brand
tags:
  - article
  - seed
---
> I propose six significant levels of pace and size in the working structure of a robust and adaptable civilization.  From fast to slow the levels are:
> 
> - Fashion/art
> - Commerce
> - Infrastructure
> - Governance
> - Culture
> - Nature

> The order of a healthy civilization. The fast layers innovate; the slow layers stabilize. The whole combines learning with continuity.


![](/assets/pace_layering.jpg)

> The idea of pace layering has a history.  The text above is a slightly edited version of a chapter in my 1999 book _The Clock of the Long Now: Time and Responsibility._

## Resources

Jolly Contrarian has a great [summary page for pace layering](https://jollycontrarian.com/index.php?title=Pace_layering).