What Stray Cats Taught Me About Spontaneous Order

Cats of Greece: A Spontaneous Order

My recent trip to Greece with my wife was a whirlwind of adventures, from sailing to hiking to indulging in the local cuisine. Amidst all the excitement, one thing that stood out was the ubiquitous presence of cats. They seemed to be everywhere we went, from the streets of Athens to the ancient ruins of Meteora.

Our Greek friends had mentioned that cats have long been considered an integral part of the community. Dating back to ancient times, cats were revered for their role in protecting against evil spirits and bringing good luck. Deities like Artemis, Aphrodite, and Athena were often depicted in the company of felines, emphasizing their importance in Greek culture.

But what fascinated me the most was the organization of these cats. Whether in bustling cities or remote villages, the felines displayed a remarkable sense of decorum. They would often lounge at our feet, patiently waiting for a morsel of food to drop, without ever resorting to aggressive behavior. It was a stark contrast to the behavior of my own cats back home.

During a coffee break in Ithaca, a tourist made a disparaging remark about the cats, calling them a “plague.” I couldn’t disagree more. To me, the harmonious coexistence of humans and cats in Greece was a testament to the concept of spontaneous order, as proposed by F.A. Hayek. The cats and the locals had developed an unwritten code of conduct that benefitted both parties, without the need for central planning.

While some may view stray cats as a drain on resources, I saw them as a natural outgrowth of a society where individuals and animals alike find their place based on mutual needs and interactions. The cats of Greece exemplified a form of self-organization that ensured their survival and integration into the community.

As I sipped on my espresso, basked in the warm Greek sun, and felt the gentle purr of a cat by my side, I realized that maybe there was no need for deep philosophical musings. Sometimes, the simple pleasures of life – a good cup of coffee, the company of a furry friend – are all we need to appreciate the beauty of spontaneous order.

Dennis Murphy is a professional airline pilot with a background in aviation safety, accident investigation, and causality. When he’s not flying 737s, he enjoys the company of his wife, their dogs, cats, and bees.