A key characteristic of the hierarchy of natural systems is information flow.2 Regardless of the point at which it originates, information spreads up and down the components of the hierarchy. Information flow has a domino effect as it affects the whole system. The magnitude of the problems that a disturbance at one level may cause and its impact on the whole hierarchy are clear in any study of the overpopulation of the planet. The result of overpopulation is depletion of natural resources and chaos associated with too many people living in disharmony.