Computer graphics has allowed us to visualise what was in many ways 'hidden' in theory and formulae. The machine is a virtual laboratory where you can program your own universe, run the simulation and observe or even interact with the behaviour generated. This process of feedback between mind, machine and image outlines the process of Computational Synergetics - that is the human mind working with a feedback to enhance understanding of the process being explored.
Many have observed that this process enables results and/or understanding that would be far greater than what could be achieved without this link.
As our dependence on technology increases, and as the complexity, subtlety and intimacy of the human-machine interface develops it seems that our next major evolutionary steps will involve an inter-relationship with our technology. Ideas and techniques being developed now give us some glimpse into the nature, and the future, of ourselves.