bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Now is the time
Authors: Platt John
Published: February 2011

Within the next few years, our increasing international stresses seem likely to lead either to catastrophe or to major structural change. Our global technologies and global problems are pressing us inexorably toward a global level of human organization. But most of our current thinking about such problems is limited to the context of the present unstable system of more or less independent nations. It does not deal with the question of what new kind of global management structure we may have to adopt in order to get more security and more stability. “We are floundering for lack of a long‐run vision of where we want to be.”

Could we begin to design such a structure? There have been brilliant advances in “social technical knowledge” in the last 40 years, for example in cybernetics, systems theory, game theory, psychology, management theory, micromotives and macro‐behavior, and the science of negotiation. These new disciplines might make possible the invention of various kinds of new self‐stabilizing social structures with democratic or mutual self‐management by the nations and peoples involved. Such forms based on modern principles and experiments might actually work much better than most of our present old‐fashioned and patchwork political arrangements.

A discussion is given of the basic requirements for a global peace‐keeping system of this kind, if it is to be both effective and acceptable, with minimum interference with existing governments. Many variations are possible (as with biological organisms) as long as certain stability rules are not violated. If an experienced multinational group representing several disciplines could work out the principles of such a global management structure—one that offered a hard‐headed improvement in security and positive advantages to the major powers—it might give a larger view that would change the context and the thinking in many of our confrontations today.

At crucial times in history, there have been astonishingly sudden step‐ups to new levels of organization, sometimes by deliberate design. In the next few months or years, at some moment of crisis, with international shock and public pressure, it could happen again. Now is the time to apply our new social knowledge to the drafting of a new global peace‐keeping design that could be ready for consideration when that moment comes.
The nature of existing systems
Authors: Bahm Archie J.
Published: February 2011

A fuller and more detailed exposition of the organicistic general systems theory criticizing inadequacies in previous systems philosophies, especially emergentistic (exemplified by A. Koestler) and structuralist (exemplified by E. Laszlo), focuses on the nature of naturally existing systems. Additional exploration of the nature of abstracted and constructed mental systems has been postponed for later treatment. The nature of existing systems involves (1) existing and thus all essential characteristics of existence, (2) existing as something in itself (being an entity, having individuality, and being not any other system), (3) existing as a whole of parts with their interrelations (negation, interdependence, interaction, intercausation and dialectic), (4) existing as an organic unity of whole and parts (which is complex, multinegative, partial, variable and entitive), (5) existing in a world of other systems (including its parts as systems, higher‐level systems in which it is a part, coordinate systems, and larger and more comprehensive, multi‐leveled systems including the universe) with which each interrelates multi‐varyingly, intercausingly (involving novelty, interlevel causation, hierarchy, quanta and cessation) and (6) existing as an organic unity not only of its whole and parts but also of its participation in other systems (at all levels, including the universe as a whole) interdependingly, interactingly, intercausingly and dialectically.
Towards implementing the menon report: A systems approach using ISM
Authors: Ayiku M. N. B.
Published: February 2011

This paper discusses one procedure for examining technology policy objectives. A set of technology policy objectives was selected from a report prepared by a group of Commonwealth experts. These were then partially structured using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) methodology. The resulting structure is presented and discussed. Deductions made from these are used to indicate a possible mode of efficiently implementing the main policy recommendations of the expert report consistent with the value system of the society concerned.
Adult cognitive and epistemological development in systems education
Authors: Salner Marcia
Published: February 2011

The purpose of this paper is to identify competencies that are essential to systems learning in undergraduate and graduate education. Specifically, the paper describes various stages of adult cognitive development, utilizing the theoretical framework of William Perry, and shows how these stages are related to basic epistemological issues and concerns that have predominated in the evolution of the philosophy of science. The paper identifies the stage of adult cognitive development and its related epistemological position that is most compatible with the assumptions of general systems theory. The paper argues that general systems theory cannot be adequately understood or applied by undergraduate or graduate students until their thinking has reached a particular developmental level and they have integrated particular epistemological assumptions into their world views. The paper demonstrates that the goals and requirements of systems learning are compatible with the goals and requirements of liberal or general education and suggests that educators in all disciplines, not just systems experts, must contribute to the development of systems competencies.
Toward a general systems theory of social behavior: A psychocybernetic perspective
Authors: Joseph Sirgy M.
Published: February 2011

A general psychocybernetic theory of human behavior is introduced in this paper. The theory, referred to as ‘congruity theory’, is designed to explain both cognitive and affective behavior at both the individual and group levels. Cognitive phenomena are postulated to be determined by different patterns of perceptual congruity analyzed from four different analytical perspectives. Examples of cognitive phenomena examined include information processing, communication, adaptive learning and cognitive development. The four analytical perspectives are: (1) intrapersonal, (2) interpersonal, (3) situational/ecological and (4) developmental. In contrast, affective phenomena are postulated to be determined by different patterns of evaluative congruity analyzed from the four different analytical perspectives. Examples of affective phenomena examined include evaluation, exchange, strategic decision making and affective development. Both perceptual and evaluative congruity processes are described in terms of a cybernetic comparator function involving the valence property of the perceived stimulus and a referent belief. Perceptual congruity is argued to be directed by the need for cognitive consistency, whereas evaluative congruity is directed by the need for emotional enhancement.
Correspondence: Genetic epistemology of intelligent natural systems
Authors: Maccia George S.
Published: February 2011

General systems theory requires that system properties be distributed. In the cognitive domain, intelligence is a concept that characterizes cognitive behavior. Through philosophical analysis, the systemic distribution of artificial and natural intelligence are evaluated with respect to logical primitives in pattern recognition (qualitative intelligence). In order to determine the extent of that distribution, relevant cognitive conditions in machine programs, infrahumans and humans are examined. Qualitative intelligence is shown to be distributed in infrahuman and human systems but not in machine systems.
Toward escape from the limitations of economic systems analysis: Introduction of dimensionality
Authors: Xu Li Da
Published: February 2011

There is an inherent limitation in the reductive economic systems analysis that prevents its applicability to complex socio‐economic systems. In this paper, it is found that: (1) the concept of dimensionality, set forth by Warfield, provides us with a conceptual framework for modeling complex socio‐economic systems; and (2) the resultant dimensional analysis provides us with important insights that are not obtainable with other methods. The techniques of dimensional analysis are also discussed.
Entropy, aging and death
Authors: Hershey Daniel , Lee William E.
Published: February 2011

Increasing entropy is a measure of disorder in an aging system, where death is the ultimate or maximum disorder. Excess Entropy and Excess Entropy Production characterize the entropic distance from and the rate of approach to maximum disorder. Excess Entropy and Excess Entropy Production were calculated from the thermodynamics of irreversible processes for 39 human subjects now dead. Longevity tracks were calculated, based on these concepts. Comparisons of lifespan projections from these entropy tracks against actual longevity were: Within one year (16% of the subjects); within 4 years (48%); within 7 years (74%). These Excess Entropy tracks can be useful as diagnostic tools, such as when medical stresses drive the subject off the normal decreasing (type I) track onto a rising (type II) track. Recovery from the medical stress yields a resumption of decreasing (type III) track.
Correspondence: Education for systems practice
Authors: Mcwhinney Will , Bushnell Don
Published: February 2011

This paper presents a discussion of the requirements of training for systems praxis, indicating the system theories, epistemologies, and choice making skills that are needed for work in social change. It is proposed that a person working with social systems must recognize that the client systems will be using not only contemporary but many earlier forms of system thinking. Similarly, it is argued that the epistemologies we are using today do not support systemic thinking and modes of change. An alternative epistemology is proposed. A professional program leading to a doctorate in Human and Organizational Systems is described which is based on training in analysis, synthesis and choice. The program has been designed to be self‐reflective, employing systemic modes of learning for planning and executing systemic change.
A total framework for inquiry
Authors: Kinston Warren
Published: February 2011

The total framework for inquiry is formulated as consisting of seven hierarchical levels. The lower five, as described previously (Syst. Res. 2 (1985), 95–104), are concerned with representing knowledge; the sixth level has the function of testing and contains ‘inquiring systems’; and the seventh level contains the function of wonder. The inquiring systems are an image of the framework and therefore also form a seven‐level hierarchy, in which the lower five levels have been identified previously by Churchman (The Design of Inquiring Systems, Basic Books, New York, 1971). Two further inquiring systems are described: The sixth is the ‘dialogic’ and the seventh is the ‘contemplative’. The core testing processes which underlie each of the seven inquiring systems and provide each with its different guarantee of truth are distinguished. Each core testing process (and hence each inquiring system) is shown to be underpinned by a particular level in the inquiry framework. Various symmetries and the possibility of homology between the two hierarchical structures are briefly explored.
Applied organizational genetics
Authors: Fedanzo A. J.
Published: February 2011

The theory of organizational genetics underwrites the application of biological models into some organizational contexts. Three such models are presented and discussed: (i) the evolutionary basis for optimal data redundancy; (ii) safety factors for support structures and systems; and (iii) allocation of resources for defense against herbivory. These models are translated into their corresponding organizational settings following a brief review of their meaning in biology. All three are quantitative models, allowing predictions to be made in an organizational context as well. Application of any of the models presupposes a prior analysis of the organization's data model and determination that organizational genetics accurately describes the organization.
Expert‐support systems: The new technology and the old knowledge
Authors: Ivanov Kristo
Published: February 2011

One suggestion that is advanced in this paper is that if the new wave of expert‐support systems (ESS) is not anchored in historical and philosophical (and therefore scientific) considerations the computer ages of rationalism (management information systems) and empiricism (data bases) may be followed by a wave of phenomenology, simple radical empiricism or simple pragmatism (‘practical doing’) represented by ESS, expert systems and support tools. This suggestion will be outlined by presenting the kind of questions that should be answered in order to make sure that real progress is made in the design and use of so‐called knowledge‐based ESS. Such an inventory of questions will be followed by a list of problematic concepts that should be better understood in future research.
A systemic approach to occupational stress
Authors: Armstrong Anona F. , Dudgeon Paul
Published: February 2011

A theoretical model of occupational stress built upon the concepts of systems theory is presented. Systems theory is concerned with the problems of relationships, structure and interdependence among the components of the system. Occupational stress is conceptualised within a systems framework in terms of person‐environment fit and incorporating occupational stress into the broader social issues of quality of life and quality of working life. The advantages of using a systemic approach to conceptualise and investigate occupational stress are demonstrated in a study of 38 respondents. Results strongly support hypothesised relationships between stress, strain and personality factors. The hypothesised relationships between strain, adaptive responses and quality of life and quality of working life receive qualified support.
Toward a general theory of social system development: A management/marketing perspective
Authors: Joseph Sirgy M. , Mangleburg Tamara F.
Published: February 2011

This article reports a developmental theory of social systems using concepts from developmental psychology, management, and marketing. More‐developed social systems are argued to be mostly preoccupied in satisfying higher‐order needs (e.g. social, esteem, and self‐actualization needs), whereas less‐developed social systems are mostly preoccupied in satisfying lower‐order needs (e.g. biological and safety‐related needs). Development is defined in terms of need satisfaction hierarchy of a given social system. The higher the need satisfaction of a social system the greater the development of that system. Social systems engage in a set of activities to satisfy their needs. Successful activities, therefore, serve to enhance the development of social systems. The activities that serve the needs of social systems are classified as technical, supportive, maintenance, managerial, and adaptive. Each of these types of activities involves a developmental dimension. It is argued that progressive satisfaction in social system development is a direct function of developmental changes in technical, supportive, maintenance, managerial, and adaptive activities.
Correspondence: Information entropy as a basis for media access allocation
Authors: Wood Fred B. , Wood Fred B.
Published: February 2011

A key tenet of information theory, Shannon's mathematical equation for the information entropy of a discrete communication channel, is applied by analogy to illustrate how access to political communication channels such as cable television could be allocated. Application of this equation provides a basis for maximizing the information entropy of political communication. However, such applications must overcome a number of theoretical and practical limitations to be politically viable.
Systems methods for organizational analysis and design
Authors: Jackson M. C.
Published: February 2011

This paper seeks to set out what competence in systems methodology is required for the proper study and management of organizations. There are three parts to the paper. In the first section some general remarks are made about the nature of organizations as systems. The outcome is a statement about the meta‐characteristics of the systems methods that need to be employed in organizational analysis. In the next section this result is used to classify existing systems methods aimed at exploring and gaining knowledge about organizations. It also helps to identify weaknesses in systems inquiring competence in this area. In a final section, a range of systems methods capable of managing and designing organizations is presented and the relationship between these methods and the earlier analysis is demonstrated. Again, the aim is to systematize existing systems inquiring competence in this field and to reveal gaps in that competence.
The need for systems research on global climate change
Authors: Wood Fred B.
Published: February 2011

Recent research has documented the immense complexity of global climate change. The climate system (1) is characterized by multiple inputs and feedback relationships involving many components of the earth system that (2) operate on variable time and geographic scales and (3) can exhibit nonlinear and counterintuitive behavior leading to (4) possibly abrupt changes in equilibrium conditions. Unprecedented rates of increase in atmospheric trace gases and deforestation justify intensive systems research to help verify current and projected global warming trends. This systems review identified numerous uncertainties that warrant attention.
Correspondence: Excess entropy (ee) and excess entropy production (eep) in aging, evolving systems
Authors: Hershey Daniel , Lee William E.
Published: February 2011

From the thermodynamics of irreversible processes, Excess Entropy and Excess Entropy Production formulas are developed for a living system. For inanimate, corporate‐style organizations, analogous Excess Entropy concepts are derived from Shannon's informational entropy equation. It is suggested that Excess Entropy and Excess Entropy Production are useful concepts in tracking aging systems.
Paradoxes of group life, by K. K. Smith and D. N. Berg, Jossey—Bass, San Francisco, 1987, 265 pp.
Authors: Stryker Nancy
Published: February 2011

Managing Projects in Organizations, by J. Davidson Frame, Jossey—Bass, San Francisco, 1987, 229 pp.
Design of the modern inquiring system—i. r. descartes (1596–1650)
Authors: Van Gigch J. P.
Published: February 2011

The first installment of studies which will survey the thinking of ancient and contemporary philosophers for ideas on how to design the modern inquiring system is dedicated to René Descartes, in the year in which we are celebrating the 350th anniversary of the publication of his famous Discours de la Méthode.

We begin our incursion into the design of inquiring systems by recalling that it is C. West Churchman who initiated this dialogue. We owe our inspiration to his pioneering work, The Design of Inquiring Systems [1]. In this book he sets the stage for our own study which consists of exploring the work of the great philosophers for clues on how to design the modern inquiring system. In his pioneering book, Churchman discussed the ideas of five philosophers, namely: Liebniz, Locke, Kant, Hegel and Singer. He proposed to incorporate the outstanding ideas of these thinkers in the design of modern inquiring systems. First, we will review the meaning of ‘inquiring system’ and will proceed, in future installments, to extend Churchman's work to other noteworthy philosophers and thinkers
Evolution as an entropy driven process: An economic model
Authors: Vogel Joseph H.
Published: February 2011

Evolutionists and economists employ similar methods of optimization and resource allocation to describe and predict natural and social phenomena. In this paper, entropy production is postulated as the maximand in biological processes and analogs are derived in evolutionary theory to the Stolper—Samuelson theorem, Rybczynski theorem, and Jones Magnification Effect of economic theory. The proposed thermodynamic model of evolution explains diversity, extinction, the five agents of microevolution, Gause's Competitive Exclusionary Principle, gradualism, increasing biological complexity, the Law of Extinction, Lotka's Principle, the Minimum Dissipation Principle, neutralism, punctuated equilibrium, r‐k selection, and sex in terms of free energy allocation to increase entropy production. Preliminary hypotheses are generated and the model is compared to its alternatives. Finally, implications for exobiology and a synthetic theory of natural and social phenomena are discussed.
Japanese manufacturing techniques: Nine hidden lessons in simplicity, by Richard Schonberger, The Free Press, New York, 1982, 260 pp.
Authors: Stryker Nancy
Published: February 2011

World Class Manufacturing Casebook: Implementing JIT and TQC, by Richard Schonberger, The Free Press, New York, 1987, 253 pp.

The New Manufacturing Challenge: Techniques for Continuous Improvement, by Kiyoshi Suzaki, The Free Press, New York, 1987, 255 pp.
A classification scheme to guide a journal's publication strategies: Response to editorial on publication strategies written by John N. Warfield, systems research, 5(1), (1988), 3‐8
Authors: Van Gigch John P.
Published: February 2011

This article is written to answer an Editorial on publication strategies and to attempt to study the areas of stated interest as well as the publication mix of Systems Research for the first four volumes of its existence. It is suggested that the following designators be used to classify the articles published in Systems Research:

1. First designator to indicate the article's Discipline.

2. Second designator to indicate its Level of Inquiry.

3. Third designator to indicate its Specific Application Area.
Toward an information‐based theory of irrational systems behavior
Authors: Rahmatian Sasan , Hiatt Charlotte
Published: February 2011

Starting with resistance to change as a real‐world, practical ground for understanding the apparent irrationality of human behavior, this paper proceeds to sketch a theory of rationality. Rejecting the logical/linguistic framework of rationality, we adopt the pragmatic/behavioral one instead, and within that framework build a conceptual base. The outline of the theory is embodied in seven fundamental propositions. The highlight of the theory is a postulate stating that all purposeful human behavior is rational. This postulate derives from a theory in which purposeful behavior is conceptually based on three types of assumptions. It is argued that the attribution of irrationality to others is itself a form of purposeful behavior, and therefore assumption‐based. The observer's lack of information about the actor's assumptions is viewed as the underlying explanation of his attribution of irrationality to the actor's behavior.
Multi‐modal systems design: A concern for the issues that matter
Authors: De Raadt J. D. R.
Published: February 2011

Many social systems in the past and in the present have evinced a lack of humanity. This may be attributed, at least in part, to the reductionistic ideas that have underpinned social design. These ideas have failed to see the multi‐modal character of human life, and as such, ignore the things that matter the most to mankind, such as love, faith and purpose. These operate in their own modalities and cannot be understood on the basis of economics, logic, physics or any other modal sphere.

An alternative approach to social design takes advantage of the homomorphism that exists between modalities, by transducing the order of one modality into another. If applied, this approach would lead to a more humane design of social systems.
Theoretical consideration of input transduction at the cell surface based on the development of a cybernetic model
Authors: Foss R. A.
Published: February 2011

This search for a better understanding of transduction starts by investigating the process of input transduction at the cell surface, using the β‐adrenergic receptor‐coupled adenylate cyclase system as an example. From the findings, a cybernetic model of this important cellular transducing system is developed. The forward network shows both inhibitory and stimulatory input through specific receptors and transducers into a common amplifier. The output signal from the amplifier is then transduced by an internal transducing system into specific changes within the cell's operations. Closure is provided by two negative feedback loops which control the active receptor's output into the whole system. It is concluded that the high gain potential provided by multistage amplification enables the system to respond to weak input signals and gives it greater scope for sensory adaptation. Adaptation by feedback loops prevents receptor saturation, reduces distortion, stabilizes gain and makes the system sensitive to change, not to the level of signal. The model suggests increasing domination of the total system by the feedback network, in which case the behaviour of the cell would depend mainly on its control of perception.
Truth in the science of man
Authors: Vendryès Pierre
Published: February 2011

We are going to subject human beings to scientific analysis which can reach the level of genuine scientific theory. But before starting we really should turn to the question of what we mean by ‘Science’. To do this we have to plunge centuries back to unearth various theories about the characteristics of proposed sciences. Each of these theories appears to have centered on one particular domain of Nature. Each has earned a theoretical status, establishing abstract relations between objects of its domain in agreement with actual relations, deemed as truthful. For example, the periodic motion of celestial bodies led astronomers to conceive abstract relations, as a rational order in things expressed by the word ‘cosmos’. In this way each science finally made its particular domain intelligible. Thus the intellectual scope of Science is to make Nature intelligible to mankind. When we talk about ‘Nature’ we mean everything which has existed, everything which exists, and everything which will exist. There are no limits to this domain. Man, inasmuch as he is a living being can therefore become an object of scientific enquiry and therefore scientific theorizing. The object of the present paper is to ascertain the characteristics of scientific truth attached to such a theory. This analysis is particularly relevant at the present time as science appropriates an ever‐increasing share in the advance of civilization. The theory of man is a recent development. It has encountered great resistance. The fact that throughout and despite many centuries of development, Science has so far failed to make human beings intelligible to themselves should be attributed to such resistance. This suggests that probing into the scientific theory of Man might upset many established ‘truths’ current in science today. To know these ‘truths’, we must go back as far as we can in history and attempt to trace out how scientific truth has unfolded.
Emergent attractors and the law of maximum entropy production: Foundations to a theory of general evolution
Authors: Swenson Rod
Published: February 2011

By Boltzmann's widely accepted reduction of the second law to a stochastic collision function, transformations from an incoherent to a coherent state are ‘infinitely improbable’. Yet it is precisely the transformation of the incoherent into the coherent, the progressive emergence of new levels of macroscopic constraints, that has brought, and continues to bring, the visible universe into being. Whether in ecosystem succession, the emergence of hydrodynamic structures, morphogenesis, 4GY of bioevolution, cognitive and cultural evolution, or cosmic evolution as a whole of which all the rest are part, the observed behavior is the same: Spontaneous and successive symmetry‐breaking coupled with the progressive attraction of matter away from equilibrium to time‐independent limit sets through the selection of some highly reduced (coherent) subset of accessible microstates, Ms, from some much larger initial (incoherent) set, Mn. This immediately raises the question of where, given the known laws of physics, such progressive goal‐directed behavior can come from, viz., (i) what universality governs the instability (symmetry‐breaking) of the incoherent regime; and (ii) what extremum principle governs the selection of microstates on the attractor? It is shown that a law of maximum entropy production can be reached deductively from the second law of thermodynamics with an assumption of the ontological irreducibility of nonlinear behavior, and inductively from the study of simple physical systems where the usual explanatory mechanisms, e.g., genes, brains or other ‘maker’, are clearly absent and therefore cannot be invoked. This law is seen as the cornerstone to a theory of general evolution within which biological and cultural evolution are special cases. As a result, a great proportion of the behavior generally believed to be generic to either biological or cultural systems is shown instead to be generic to the physics of the expanding universe.
A phenomenology of evolving networks
Authors: Ulanowicz Robert E.
Published: February 2011

A significant characteristic of post‐Newtonian science is its exclusion of all but material and mechanical causalities. There is reason to question whether such minimalism is sufficient to describe living processes. Paradoxically, a strict material/mechanical stance may engender unnecessary anthropomorphism. By admitting autopoiesis as an example of formal cause at work in living system, a more sufficient and natural description of biological phenomena results. Furthermore, recent advances in the analysis of networks provide a quantitative framework for identifying the effects of formal causes at the system level.
A model of the reproduction of state‐sponsored ethnic violence
Authors: Adams Richard N.
Published: February 2011

A self‐organizing trigger‐flow model is proposed to analyse the reproduction of slaughters and massacres by the state of Guatemala representing a ‘ladino’ (non‐indigene), against the Mayan indigenes population that comprises about 50% of the total. The process has evolved through many centuries and is based on a combination of mutual fear between the two ethnicities, but is triggered by the actions at the state level that bring reactions by the indigenes against the local ladino population which, in turn transmits its fear through the state leaders who again resort to slaughter.
Structural evolution in urban systems
Authors: White Roger W.
Published: February 2011

Standard dynamical models of self‐organizing urban systems give good representations of the process by which spatial order appears, but do not address the question of the evolution of the functional structure. Simulation experiments with hierarchical systems show that system dynamics at one level may affect system structure at another, and that dynamic instability leads to a concentration of activity in a large central business district, which in turn creates a structural instability that is rectified by the appearance of a new functional entity at a new hierarchical level—the planned centre. However, dynamic system models have inherent limitations when used to address the question of structural evolution. Neural network models are thus introduced as an explicit representation of a process by which structure appears and evolves in response to functional requirements. From this point of view, the city is seen as creating and modifying its own functional organization in order to deal with the stream of events that constitutes urban life. For this approach to be fully satisfactory, the emergent structure must embody a representation of itself and its environment.
Design of the modern inquiring system
Authors: Van Gigch John P.
Published: February 2011

This is a further installment of a series of articles which attempts to trace the development of the modern inquiring system. It follows an idea of C. West Churchman [2], and is a sequel to several previous installments of this series [11,12, 14].

In this case, the survey refers neither to an ancient nor to a contemporary philosopher, but to a poet and novelist, who started to write at the turn of the century.

The concept of ‘modern inquiring system’, defined by van Gigch in [14] as ‘a system dedicated to the acquisition and production of knowledge and to the solution of contemporary systems problems’ will have to be expanded in the present instance to apply not only to ‘knowledge’, but rather to ‘wisdom’, to ‘consciousness’, to ‘spiritual force’, to systemic ‘feeling’ in addition to ‘thinking’. See also [13].
The design of evolutionary guidance systems
Authors: Banathy Bela H.
Published: February 2011

Today we are standing at a critical juncture of societal evolution at which unprecedented human fulfillment as well as the annihilation of the human race are equally possible. However, we are not at the mercy of evolutionary forces but have the potential and the opportunity to give direction to societal evolution by design, provided we create a vision for the future of humankind and develop the will and the competence to realize that vision in all of our human systems, from the family on to the global system of humanity.

First I present a brief overview of societal evolution and point out evolutionary gaps that are potential sources of our destruction. I will then suggest we have the power within us to steer societal evolution toward a hoped‐for future, provided we: (1) develop evolutionary consciousness, (2) create an evolutionary vision for societal development, (3) acquire evolutionary competence, and (4) apply our competence in guiding the evolution and development of our sociocultural and socio‐technical systems.

In the third part, I elaborate on item (4) above and discuss: (a) a general model for evolutionary guidance, (b) the role of design in societal evolution, and (c) the process by which Evolutionary Guidance Systems can be created and used in societal development.
Living systems theory: A solution to the problem of closure in information systems
Authors: Banathy Bela Antal
Published: February 2011

Churchman reminds us that information systems tend to be constrained by ‘the inability of the system and its users to have proper sensing devices with respect to the outside world’. The solution to this problem of ‘closure’ is of concern in the design of information systems. This paper explores the use of Living Systems Theory as a conceptual framework for information systems design.

A formal characterization of the information processing subsystems of Living Systems Theory is presented. Miller's taxonomy of information coding mechanisms is extended to account for temporal, self‐referential, and environmental information. The extended formulation of Miller's theory is proposed as a theoretical framework for information systems design.
Systems thinking and neurological positivism: Further elucidations and implications
Authors: Vandervert Larry R.
Published: February 2011

The ideas, goals, and postulates of neurological positivism (np) are reviewed briefly. Three new lines of scientific research and systems modeling are described which clucidate np further, and which np helps to unify. (1) fractals and fractal dynamics (chaos) in both living and nonliving systems; (2) a generalized ecosystems model, and (3) a micro/macro deterministic model of upward and downward causation, with downward causation supervenient. Three implications stemming from these clarifications are described: (1) the limitations of reductionistic science; (2) the brain as a fractal‐projective generating system; and (3) a redefinition of the mind‐body problem. It is concluded that the new supportive sources of research and the new implications establish further, in ways understandable by a broad variety of people, the capacity of np to organize what we know, to unify disparate categories of knowledge within the systems thinking perspective, and to promote the rapprochement between science and the humanities.

As long as our brain is a mystery, the universe—the reflection of the structure of the brain—will be a mystery.
Supplementary systems paradigms for different stages of societal evolution with special reference to war and peace
Authors: De Greene Kenyon B.
Published: February 2011

The need for different but supplementary paradigms, one applicable to ‘normal’ conditions and one applicable to conditions yielding structural change, is emphasized. The two paradigms are briefly contrasted and mathematical examples given. Three principles, dealing with systems that have evolved or have been driven far from equilibrium, are then presented. These principles concern themselves with the role of internal fluctuations, the role of external perturbations and fluctuations (noise), and the emergence of new structure at a more microscopic level even though the system appears to be ‘normal’ at a macroscopic level. Examples and discussion about meaning are provided for each principle. An extended example on nuclear weaponry, national security, and international stability follows. Structure and texture of societal fields are then contrasted. Next, the two paradigms are discussed in terms of theory and modeling as applicable to societal management, and differential applicability of the paradigms at different evolutionary or historical times is stressed. Criteria for paradigm choice are offered.
Nonlinear management in technologically‐induced fields
Authors: De Greene Kenyon B.
Published: February 2011

Four key words, ‘technology,’ ‘environment,’ ‘nonlinear,’ and ‘field,’ are defined with special reference to management in high‐technology environments. Evolving system‐environment interrelationships are described in terms of several systems theories, and a number of laws and principles, useful as heuristics, are presented. Some assumptions of ‘linear’ management are summarized. The consequences of applying linear thinking to nonlinear situations is discussed in considerable detail. Particular attention is paid to the continued use of a Machine Model of Humanity and to the decline of American competitiveness. A concluding section presents some difficulties involved in helping American top management. Especially, the logic of the American management system is questioned.
Analogy and expert systems: Some epistemic elements in their design
Authors: Counelis James Steve
Published: February 2011

An expert system is a constructed analogue of human memory, thinking and language. The epistemic elements involved in the design of an expert system are six: (a) the metatheory of analogy; (b) the structural, substantive, processual and telic characteristics of the analogue; (c) the cognitive state of knowing built into the expert system; (d) the relation of knowing and believing to the interpretation of an expert system's derived results; (e) the principle of the unity of fact and value built into the expert system; (f) the interpretation of the expert system's calculated results, given the unity of fact and value built into the expert system. Prolog is used to illustrate expert systems design. The expert system is found to be the subjective product of the designer's intentions. Additionally, the expert system as artifact is a factually‐ladened value.
Impact of indirect relationships in classification of variables—a micmac analysis for energy conservation
Authors: Saxena J. P. , Sushil  , Vrat Prem
Published: February 2011

Structural analysis of the system is important from various points of view. Structural analysis provides an opportunity for a thorough presentation of the system under study and reduces the complexities of the system in simple understandable language. Structural analysis can be used in decision making for achieving the desired objectives and in forecasting. Identification of key variables which could influence the future dimensions is necessary to evolve appropriate policies and strategies.

The paper presents the methodology for identification of key variables based on direct as well as indirect inter‐relationships which, often, may not be clearly visible. Classification of the variables in different types of roles being played by each one is also presented by using the driver‐dependence matrix. The successful application of methodology has then been demonstrated in a case study for energy conservation in the Indian cement industry.
Modelling and analysis of authority‐responsibility relationships in an organizational system—a physical system theory approach
Authors: Sushil
Published: February 2011

This paper is an attempt to apply the principles and concepts of physical system theory to model multi‐level hierarchical organizational systems. The modelling can be carried out for both the official organizational system and the operating or problem‐solving organizational system derived from task processes. The graph theoretic approach is used to model authority‐responsibility relationships existing in the organizational network. A manager at any level is conceptualized as a multiterminal component interacting between the superior and subordinates, representing each interaction as a two‐terminal component. The unit authority across two levels is different and hence taken as an ‘across variable’ while the responsibility, which flows through the organization, is taken as a ‘through variable’. An operational and pragmatic concept is provided to measure the authority and responsibility based on facts as well as opinion. The analysis has been carried out for a hypothetical illustrative organizational system with three levels. The model may prove to be of help in analysing the inconsistencies in authority‐responsibility relationships which can be used for improving the organizational design.
Cybernetics, systems science, and the great university
Authors: Warfield John N.
Published: February 2011

It is time that the related fields of cybernetics and systems science began to make a significant contribution to the design of organizations. A good place to begin is with the design of the Great University.

The Great University does not presently exist, either in any institution or in a conceptual form. If it can be designed conceptually, the possibility exists that it may be realized in practice, and that it could serve as an example to existing institutions.

The Great University represents a sufficiently sophisticated concept that its design and operation both can serve as tests of the quality and utility of concepts from systems science and cybernetics.

The Great University is founded on the Leibniz Principle of Reason. In order to reflect this Principle, it is animated by and organized around three objectives of education set forth by Ralph Barton Perry, which are founded in the aim to prepare people for the exercise of citizenship in a free society.

Evaluation of the Great University will lie in the performance of university graduates in society. The Great University will strive to create and implement exemplary practices that reinforce high quality performance of university graduates and correct the factors that promote low‐quality performance in university graduates.

In creating an organization and programs that are responsive to the Leibniz Principle and the Perry Objectives, the Great University will set behavioral standards of the highest ethical quality, and its internal incentive system for faculty and student performance will be designed to promote balanced attention to the three objectives. In order to achieve this, a double infrastructure will be required to meet the vastly different requirements of subsumptive and supersumptive activity, both types being essential in the Great University.

“… the paradox is now fully established that the utmost abstractions are the true weapons with which to control our thought of concrete fact.”

Alfred North Whitehead
Thermodynamics of complexity
Authors: Fivaz Roland
Published: February 2011

Foundations of thermodynamics are reviewed in terms of the elementary processes driving spontaneous evolution in physical systems. These processes lead to ergodic and mixing behavior as well as to conservation of macroscopic quantities such as total energy; finally a tendency towards order through instabilities results when the environment is cold enough. Instabilities are in turn considered as processes driving a spontaneous evolution in complex systems in their natural environment; again ergodic and mixing behavior is exhibited as well as new conserved quantities. As a result, a second thermodynamics is built which relates complexity to the corpuscular nature of matter. Thus, general properties of complex systems are pointed out, such as spontaneous and irreversible tendency towards complexity, development by stages and information flow between systems of different complexity.
Providing complete and integrated information science education
Authors: Forgionne Guiseppi A.
Published: February 2011

Information is needed by a variety of users for various purposes in private and public enterprises. Colleges and universities help meet this need by conducting research and educating people in information science. The relevant education and research is provided by these institutions through business, computer science, and other programs (including library science, communication, and engineering). Each of these approaches has inherent shortcommings that will prevent them from delivering complete and integrated information science education and research. This paper examines the various approaches, explains the shortcommings, and proposes an alternative approach to resolve the difficulties.
The influence of the center of gravity on organizational entropy
Authors: Hershey Daniel , Darcy Troy , Mcfarland Michael , Oates Michael
Published: February 2011

The Center of Gravity of organizational power, and organizational entropy, were calculated for various structures. It was found that as the Center of Gravity recedes away from the President, entropy increases.
Design of the modern inquiring system — VII. Ramon Lull (1232–1315) and His ARS MAGNA
Authors: Pavesi Pedro F. J. , Pavesi Pablo E.
Published: February 2011

This is the seventh installment of a series of articles which traces the development of the modern inquiring system (IS), a system dedicated to the acquisition, production and dissemination of knowledge. The main idea behind this series is to resurrect classic works which bear relevance to the systems movement, in general, and to the understanding of how the modern inquiring system has evolved in particular.

Previous installments of this series, Parts I to VI, have appeared in Systems Research as follows: Part I and II in Vol.5,(3), 1988; Part III and IV in Vol.5,(4), 1988; Part V in Vol.6,(2); and Part VI in Vol.6,(3). Readers are referred to those publications [14][15][16][13][11][7] respectively. They are also invited to submit appropriate sequels to these articles by sending them to the author‐editor whose address appears above. Contributions are welcome.
Evolving system‐fields, versus context‐free, futures perspectives: Some thoughts on controllability
Authors: De Greene Kenyon B.
Published: February 2011

Context‐free, mechanistic forecasting is reviewed and some examples of deficiencies in this approach noted. Reasons for and benefits and dangers of using forecasts are dicussed. The evolution of the world system‐field of forces is dicussed in considerable detail. Predictability and acceptability of scientific theory are summarized. A heuristic forecast is made of politicomilitary, social, economic, and ecological changes, within the context of evolving fields of forces, over the epoch 1990–2025. Human nature may not be sufficiently resilient to cope with the challenges and opportunities associated with imminent reconfigurational change.