Jan Diek van Mansvelt
Jan Diek van Mansvelt (1943–2024) was a biologist, educator and agricultural scientist. He was co-founder of the Louis Bolk Institute and special professor of alternative agriculture at Wageningen University.
His work focused on the relationship between nature, humanity and society, and on the question of how agriculture can contribute to a healthy and responsible society.
After the passing of Jan Diek on 24 July 2024, Ellen Winkel (editor-in-chief of the members’ magazine Dynamisch Perspectief) described his life and work “in memoriam”. See the website of the BD Association
Scientist, educator and pioneer
Van Mansvelt studied biology and subsequently worked as a teacher and researcher at the intersection of agriculture, ecology and phenomenology. His approach was always directed towards careful and attentive observation.
As co-founder of the Louis Bolk Institute, he contributed to the scientific foundation of organic and biodynamic agriculture in the Netherlands. His work was internationally recognised.
His special professorship at Wageningen University concerned alternative agricultural systems, in which he always sought the connection between scientific methods and a broader philosophy of life.
Agriculture as responsibility
Van Mansvelt saw agriculture not as a purely technical activity, but as a form of care: for the soil, the plant, the animal and society.
"To use government policy as an argument for doing nothing yourself sounds very convenient." — Jan Diek van Mansvelt
Work as legacy
The book Wonders of Development is one of his last and most personal works. In it he brings together a lifetime of observing, thinking and working.
Remembrances
On 22 July 2024, Jan Diek van Mansvelt passed away. During his working life he devoted himself to his guiding motto:
as a biosoopher I want to better understand nature,
in order to show it proper respect,
throughout the entire food chain,
from soil to mouth,
here and elsewhere,
for now and for the future
Below are several messages that were published posthumously as expressions of gratitude and appreciation for his work. On behalf of the family: heartfelt thanks for all the kind words.
Memorial articles and tributes: