Biomorphism and models in design

Abstract

Biomorphism is a form of biomimicry that involves the use of biological forms as models for the design of artifacts such as airplanes, computers, and islands. This article characterizes biomorphism as a form of abductive reasoning. It also provides an overview of biomorphic design in terms of the parameters of similarity and utility. The cognitive significance of biomorphism is reviewed with respect to research in pareidolia and consumer choice. The normative status of biomorphism is considered in light of its tendency to conflate natural and artificial categories.