ABSTRACT
Constraints to, and possibilities of, effecting second-order change by adding three new governance subsystems are explored. As the old can be a debilitating encumbrance on the new, there is a need to know how to liberate thinking and practice from the shackles of ill-prepared governance systems that foster only first-order change. These encumbrances create different demands of the biosphere, technosphere and social purpose. Four metaphors, which draw on both systems and cybernetic thinking, are offered and explored. They reveal understandings that are lacking in current governance systems. Purposefully designed human activity systems which operate from the social purpose subsystem will be required to give agency to the biosphere and technosphere, as well as for elaborating ongoing social purpose. An example of reclaiming social purpose from an ineffective state through institutional reform of education is offered.
