Purpose: Seeks to promote an understanding of a multidisciplinary approach to artificial intelligence and the humanities. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on an interview with Heinz von Foerster. Findings: Describes von Foerster’s personal and intellectual journey which made him a transdisciplinary scientist and the founder and director of the Biological Computer Laboratory. Originality/value – Provides a better understanding in how the complexity of scientific practice should be reflected in an open and flexible attitude towards the objects of enquiry.

Key words: artificial intelligence, cybernetics.