Using science of conceptual systems to guide policy and theory of social change: a push towards more accurate anticipatory system modelling

Abstract

In Rosen’s Anticipatory systems theory, it is generally accepted that modelling relations correctly is important to improve anticipatory capacity. Recently it was accepted that social systems can also be seen as anticipatory systems in which their internal predictive models are generally meaning facilitated through information. However, it is not clear how these externalised models in social systems are measured, thus how “good or bad” they are before deciding on a course of action. Drawing on the Science of Conceptual Systems, these models are regarded as conceptual systems, which include, policies, theories, code of ethics, etc. that guide human decisions and action. In this study using the Integrative Propositional Analysis methodology, the structure of the models provides a useful measure for their anticipatory capacity. The more structured models encode the natural environment more accurately, enhancing their social utility. This research is expected to support inter-, multi-, and transdisciplinary scholars and practitioners.