MICRO
What is micro homology?
Micro homology refers to intrinsic sameness, usually on smaller scale (micro level) of the phenomena under consideration, more particularly to matching the essence of instances being compared. These entities display identical configurational characteristics on the “genetic” scale - organisms having the same molecular structure; integrated circuits having the same components and layout; materials having the atomic nano-structures. At this level the observations and analyses must be carried on through instrumentation (electronic microscopes and computers) because the features are too small to discern with the “natural senses.” However, in the era of genetic medicine, micro-electronics, and nano-technologies, the properties that can be discovered in, or designed into materials can only be implemented with such sophisticated instruments (Drexler, 1987).
There is another instance of micro homology that involves a “close reading” rather than a microscope. What this consists of is a careful perusal and elaborate interpretation of cultural phenomena. “Hermeneutics” and “”Discourse Analysis are two instances of this search for micro homology in the Humanities, as are “Cultural Case Studies” and “Phenomenology” in the Social Sciences. In these instances the aim is to observe, study, and report on micro-cultural, micro-psychological, micro-sociological, and micro-anthropological patterns of behaviour and interaction. The conclusions may not be generalizable, but they do provide an in-depth report of specific human actions in specific circumstances. What the micro homology consists of in these instances is a comparison between behaviours or individuals within these small groups to determine to what extent they are identical (on whatever dimensions are studied).
How are micro homologies used?
Those looking for micro homology at the “genetic” level and looking to turn the knowledge they acquire into new commercial products and processes. They believe (and considerable evidence supports them) that nano design will give more effective products whose functionality is at the microscopic level – medicines and supplements that can absorb faster and work better; materials that are stronger, more durable, and have other desirable industrial properties. There are even plans for genetic engineering with nano-technology, wherein aging, metabolism and immunity are altered for the better through micro-manipulation.
The “close-reading” version of micro homologies is used (a) to argue that humanity actually has more characteristics in common than any that differentiate them; and (b) to argue that those characteristics that do differentiate humanity are more important than any that they share in common. Matching methodologies can be used to support opposing objectives – ironies abound.
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