![]() For example, what are its boundaries? What perspective are we taking when talking about it? How do its parts interact? And so forth. Since “systems” are human constructions and can be thought of in infinitely many complex ways, we have to be clear about how we’re framing any particular system of interest.Systems aren’t objective things that exist “out there.” They are subjective ways of thinking that humans have come up with to make sense of the complexities of the world.Yet before going further, it’s important to understand three concepts for framing discussions about systems: This vast and almost cosmic beauty is part of the appeal of thinking in terms of systems. The universe can be viewed as a massive set of systems interacting in infinitely complex ways, with any given system containing various subsystems while simultaneously acting as a subsystem of a larger system. All systems have a function or purpose that is brought about by the very nature of how the system is built. Compare, for instance, a car, which is relatively easy to understand and even diagnose when something goes wrong, to a tropical rainforest, which contains so many living and nonliving components that we’re only just beginning to understand how they work. What is a system?Ī system is a set of things interacting in a way that produces something greater than the sum of its parts. ’Tis not too late to seek a newer world.” The long day wanes: the slow moon climbs: the deep ![]() “The light begins to twinkle from the rocks: “For some, the development of systems thinking is crucial for the survival of humanity.” – John Sterman ![]() This article is intended to introduce systems thinking into our common lexicon – to explain what it is at a basic level, how it can be used, and why it may very well be the key to humanity’s survival over the long run. Widespread adoption of systems thinking represents one of society’s best bets for making real progress towards this daunting transition, but few actually understand what it is. Many people recognize the need to transition to sustainable, resilient ways of living, but the prospect of such a transition is daunting, not only from a logistical perspective, but also because it requires new ways of thinking about and addressing complex problems. Diminishing returns on fossil fuel energy investments, combined with their dwindling availability and environmental harm, threaten industrial civilization. Overpopulation, resource scarcities, degraded ecosystem functioning from pollution and biodiversity loss, and anthropogenic climate change are damaging the life-supporting capacity of the planet. ![]()
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