Cultivating more-than-human lifeworlds : laudatio on indigenous fermentation, smell and metabolic power grids

Abstract

What are ethical and species-affirming approaches for how humans, can relate to you, the fermenting Lactobacilli? In pursuit of this question, you, the single-cellular life forms inside living machines and bio-artistic events are invited to join the animal party! Just because human animals neither have the sensorium nor the empathy to grasp your lifeworlds [1], does not mean they can keep ignoring your presence. Biophysically, you are already everywhere the human animals are; in their breath, on their skin and inside their guts and yoghurt. [2] Before they know it, your ‘micro-metabolic power grid’, might even charge their electronic gadgets. [3] Lactobacilli, it is not enough for you to be their workhorse. For human animals to keep their future options lively and open, you need to become their role model. They can learn from your synergetic, cultural manipulation and coalescent social work. Teach them how to be a playful companion dweller inside this planetary home!