Abstract
This paper investigates the ecological implications of two different trends in systems science: (1) Ludwig von Bertalanffy’s General Systems Theory (GST), which establishes the framework of Eugene Odum’s Systems Ecology; (2) Second-Order Cybernetics (SOC), a systemic approach outlined by Heinz von Foerster, Humberto Maturana, and Niklas Luhmann, in which the roots of a new ecological paradigm called General Ecology can be found. In the article, GST and SOC will be compared with respect to their different ways of conceiving a system and its genesis; the role of the observer in defining the boundaries of a system; and the relation between system and environment. It will be shown how SOC, contrasting the principle of hierarchical control of GST, leads to the notion of ecological differences, which indicates a plurality of system-environment dyads, problematizing the idea of environment as a physical and objective reference.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
