ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the conceptual precursors for sustainability and sustainable development. It reviews the most relevant systems and evolutionary principles that constitute the conceptual frameworks. The definition of the concept of sustainability is based on the following two assertions. First, every unit has a given functional capacity, which follows an initially increasing and later decreasing pattern with time. This is in line with the ontological pattern of development that covers the ascendancy, climax, and retrogression phases. The second assertion is that every system has a succession function that enables the system to sustain its functional capacity through alternative cycles of succession. The alternative conceptual framework is based on the key principles of systems evolution and information theories. The chapter discusses the key principles used as the basis and the principle of hierarchies and interactions as a source of dynamic complexities. It details the cosmic interaction that is built upon the vertical and horizontal interactions of the several cosmic components.
