ABSTRACT
Systemicity is receiving wider attention thanks to its evident paradox. On the one hand, it occurs as a problem with complex symptoms. On the other, it is sought after as an approach for dealing with the non-linear reality of the world. At once problem and prize, systemicity continues to confound. This book details the mechanics of this paradox as they arise from human epistemological engagement with the world.
Guided by an original analysis of the fundamental idea of emergent property, Thinking Through Systems Thinking uncovers the distinct significance, but also incompleteness, of the systems approach as a theory of human epistemological engagement. The incompleteness is treated through a non-eclectic interdisciplinary investigation which meets ten distinctly developed criteria required of any potential interdisciplinary partner to systems thinking. There results a theory of knowledge – an epistemology - which is systemic in both senses of the term: it belongs to the general systems movement, and it is systemically structured. The systems movement is thus offered a distinct epistemological voice which can compete on equal ground with other philosophical/epistemological positions. In true systemic fashion, this theory of knowledge also offers methodological, ethical, and existential implications.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part |37 pages
Contextual investigations
part |45 pages
System theoretical investigations
chapter |12 pages
Emergence
chapter |15 pages
Emergent properties and complexes
chapter |16 pages
Justification
part |47 pages
Phenomenological investigations
chapter |15 pages
Perception and intention
chapter |18 pages
Emergent properties and identities
chapter |12 pages
Intentionality
part |46 pages
Systemic epistemological investigations
chapter |14 pages
Intuition
chapter |16 pages
Dogmatism and bounded rationality
chapter |14 pages
A systemic epistemology
part |35 pages
Applied investigations
chapter |14 pages
Alienation
chapter |9 pages
Methodological implications
chapter |10 pages
An application in Organizational Learning theory
part |16 pages
Concluding reflections