by Chris Parks
A bee skep, as a symbol, speaks to one’s soul. Its charm may inspire thoughts of happiness, health and home. The sight of a simple skep surrounded by an abundance of flora humming in the midday sun conjures notions of a thriving community, a bustling economy and a diligent harmony. The image is ancient, used by heraldry, brotherhoods and sisterhoods and suchlike. A well-warded college divulging mysteries to initiates. A story of labours, treasures and trust. Proudly displayed by Innkeepers,
Beekeepers of course, mead makers, and in more recent times, by banks and businesses.
By nature it is indeed a sentient symbol for any society or social enterprise. Today we understand that a colony of bees functions as an ‘autonomous collective’: they are a self-governing, interdependent group in which individuals have the ability to make autonomous decisions according to ever-changing external stimulus. There is no one in charge. No ruler, no manager. Personal occupational decisions can be made in the moment by single bees, and big decisions can be made democratically. The queen serves the populous, honours the democracy, and all enjoy the vote, as you or I may...to read the entire article click here..