The: Shadow Side of Systems Theory

Abstract

Systems theory, and holistic thinking in general, has become very popular as a worldview and mode of explanation in recent years because of a number of epistemological advantages it displays over positivist science and the mechanical paradigm. It has been applied to the analysis of major historical changes, the etiology of certain diseases, as well as to ecology and basic perceptions of the earth. Yet a closer look at the systemic or holistic paradigm also reveals a number of significant disadvantages: a tendency to ignore crucial social and historical contexts, as well as individual differences and aspirations; the fallacy of generalizing from specific laboratory experiments to wide-scale social metaphors; and a strong religious orientation, including unreflective thinking and a potentially authoritarian outlook, frequently justified by cultural relativism and the supposed need for a "paradigm shift." However, cultural relativism and notions of the plasticity of reality have their limits, for there is no getting around the reality of certain stubbom facts; and in the case of paradigm shifts, we need to be clear about what we are shifting to before we embrace such changes in a zealous or unreserved way. In this regard, it is significant that the systems search for "order out of chaos" corresponds so clearly to the emerging global corporate economy with its demands for worldwide political stability. Systems thinking will undoubtedly continue to be part of contemporary scientific and philosophical discussions; however, uncritically promoting it as a worldview will not serve our interests, philosophical or otherwise.