Three Basic Perspectives to Evaluate Systems Thinking

Abstract

Three perspectival frames useful to the interrogation of systems thinking are introduced: the idea of second-order science , the idea of an evolutionary perspective, and the operation of two modes of consciousness . First, I unpack the meaning of the terms ‘holism ’ and ‘reflexivity ’. These two terms constitute core and central ideas in systemic thinking; the three perspectival frames are described in reference to these ideas. The Western phenomenological tradition, resting on intentionality as the key originating impulse of consciousness , operates from a singular mode of consciousness which I term as the becoming-striving mode. Eastern philosophy, however, additionally recognises another mode, which I term as the being-abiding mode. Relying solely on the former mode results in subject–object dualism and all sorts of fragmentary knowing, which can only be overcome from the being-abiding mode of consciousness . The two modes operate always and are in simultaneity; the nub is about awareness of this. To enable a clearer appreciation of the operation of these two modes, I describe some of the paradoxes that arise from the dependence on only one mode, which informs the ontological principles underlying most systems thinking. I suggest that, corresponding to each of these two modes of consciousness , we must characterise separate ontologies and epistemologies. The chapter is concluded by pointing to three real life examples that ought to be amenable to systemic intervention; and yet systemists would be hard put to deal with them.