The nature of agency: Designing agentic systems using a biomimetic lens
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Laurie Hughes: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0956-0608
Abstract
Purpose – This paper aims to explore how biomimetic principles can inform governance models for agentic artificial intelligence (AI) systems, autonomous, adaptive entities that challenge traditional oversight frameworks. It argues that nature-inspired governance offers a dynamic alternative to static, compliance-based models. Design/methodology/approach – This study adopts a conceptual viewpoint approach. It synthesizes literature on AI governance, systems theory and biomimicry, applying thematic analysis to existing frameworks and mapping identified gaps to five natural principles: symmetry, fractals, cymatic feedback, self-organization and phase transitions. Findings – Current governance frameworks lack mechanisms for managing emergent behaviors and distributed agency in agentic AI. The proposed biomimetic lens offers a conceptual scaffold for adaptative, decentralized governance aligned with ethical norms. Research limitations/implications – No empirical validation is provided; future research should use simulation or design science to test biomimetic governance in real-world contexts. Practical implications – This paper offers actionable guidance for policymakers and system designers to adaptive, resilient governance mechanisms into agentic AI architectures. Originality/value – Introduces “Biomimic AI” as a novel paradigm for governing agentic systems, extending systems theory and responsible AI discourse through nature-inspired design logic.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
1-1-2025
Publication Title
Journal of Systems and Information Technology
Publisher
Emerald
School
School of Business and Law
Copyright
subscription content
First Page
1
Last Page
25
Comments
Malik, T., Hughes, L., Dwivedi, Y. K., De Mello, N., Barahona, I., & Jeon, I. (2026). The nature of agency: Designing agentic systems using a biomimetic lens. Journal of Systems and Information Technology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1108/JSIT-07-2025-0306