Diagnose the viability of separation of power in Egypt: a cybernetics perspective

Kybernetes ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nahed T. Zeini
Keyword(s):  
Political System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
System Model ◽  
Self Organization ◽  
The Political ◽  
Power Structures ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Diagnostic Framework ◽  
Viable System ◽  
And Control

PurposeThe aim of this study is to diagnose the Egyptian political system from the perspective of the viable system model (VSM). That in turn gives us significant insights on how to improve the distribution and control of power in Egypt to warrant greater autonomy and representativeness in the branches of government.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed diagnostic framework in this study was accomplished by applying the principles and aspects of Stafford Beer's VSM to the three state powers of Egypt: the executive, legislative and judiciary. In addition, it adopts the guidelines for applying the VSM described by both Stafford Beer and José Pérez Ríos.FindingsThe presented framework in this study shows a comprehensive explanation of the essential functions and their distribution among the entities of the Egyptian political system. In addition to that, the findings give us insights about the need for greater autonomy and self-organization among the political system's entities. Greater communication, consensus, cooperation and coordination is needed to achieve balance, regulate the interactions between them and to monitor each other without intervention. This, in turn, would ensure greater representation of citizen demands and expectations, and protect and guarantee their rights and freedoms.Originality/valueThe modeling of the Egyptian political system from a VSM perspective suggests the necessity of reform of the political system by a clear division of functions and tasks within the operational entities and subentities, decentralization of power structures and utilization of the decision marketing mechanism to reach public acceptance. The application of the VSM, for the sake of diagnosing and designing the viability of separation of power, can be considered as highly original.

A new management for enduring company success

Kybernetes ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 40 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 369-393 ◽  
Author(s):  
William F. Christopher
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
System Model ◽  
Business Enterprise ◽  
Viable System Model ◽  
System Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Turbulent Times ◽  
Changing Times ◽  
Viable System ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explain how the system science and cybernetics in Stafford Beer's viable system model (VSM) will help management structure and manage their company to achieve on‐going success in a fast‐changing world.Design/methodology/approachThe author worked with Stafford Beer in the 1970s, applying his VSM in the corporation he then worked for and has used the VSM ideas in work with companies in 16 countries, always with success. The VSM instructs in how to structure and how to manage. For what to manage the author used Peter Drucker's key performance areas, and has more than 50 years of experience working in these areas.FindingsThe author has found, during his long career in industry and in consulting, that the VSM is the best available guide for structuring and managing a business enterprise for success in turbulent times.Practical implicationsIn the 1950s, Ralph Cordiner “decentralized” General Electric into 120 businesses, pioneering a new, better way to structure and manage a corporation. After 50 years, we have the next revolutionary advance in management, the system science and cybernetics in Stafford's VSM. The VSM includes information and environments in structure, enabling companies to change as appropriate for achieving on‐going success in a world of huge and fast‐growing variety.Originality/valueThe paper shows how a simple form of the VSM includes all the system science company management needs to structure and manage their company for enduring success in fast‐changing times.

Guidance on applying the viable system model

Kybernetes ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
pp. 186-201 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sandra Hildbrand ◽  
Shamim Bodhanya
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Research Methods ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Qualitative Research Methods ◽  
System Model ◽  
Viable System Model ◽  
Essential Information ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Language Needs ◽  
Viable System

Purpose – Although many cases where viable system model (VSM) was successfully applied exist, hardly any literature advises the novice VSM user regarding the accomplishment of a VSM diagnosis. The purpose of this paper is to show practitioners and researchers how to conduct a VSM diagnosis. The paper further seeks to encourage others to apply VSM and to share their experience with using VSM. Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides detailed guidelines on how to conduct a VSM diagnosis in conjunction with qualitative research methods. It outlines the data collection, analysis and presentation of results. Findings – VSM is an outstanding diagnostic tool. Qualitative research methods provide access to the essential information for the VSM diagnosis and should be used in iteration with VSM. They can enhance the VSM diagnosis by focusing on the soft aspects in the investigated system. The VSM language needs to be adapted to the specific context in which VSM is used and VSM can be applied in a participatory manner. Further research needs to explore possibilities to strengthen the handling of detected shortcomings that were revealed during the VSM diagnosis. Research limitations/implications – This paper is based on one experience with the VSM application and other VSM users might provide different insights. Originality/value – There is little practical advice in existing literature regarding the accomplishment of a VSM diagnosis. This paper addresses that gap. In addition, VSM has not been applied to a sugarcane production and supply system before.

scholarly journals Analyzing the Chinese budgetary responses to COVID-19: balancing prevention and control with socioeconomic recovery

2020 ◽  
Vol 32 (5) ◽  
pp. 929-937 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shaolong Wu ◽  
Muhua Lin
Keyword(s):  
Political System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Health Spending ◽  
Resource Mobilization ◽  
Chinese Government ◽  
Content Type ◽  
News Reports ◽  
Public Health Spending ◽  
And Control ◽  
Relief Efforts

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to analyze the scope and magnitude of Chinese budgetary responses to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.Design/methodology/approachThis study analyzes budgetary response in China by means of public reports, news reports and policy documents.FindingsThe Chinese responses were comprehensive, flexible and fast. Through the normal authorization process, simplifying procedures of budget allocation and special legislative approval after the surge of COVID-19 cases, China used many budgetary measures to help suffering businesses and households to buffer the economic difficulties caused by the pandemic. It also increased public health spending very quickly so subnational governments could control and prevent the pandemic with the necessary resources. International relief efforts have also been increased. These findings show the unique strength of the Chinese political system, which is very flexible and quick in resource mobilization.Originality/valueThis study offers a quick review of the Chinese budgetary responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. It also highlights some of the future concerns and needs of the Chinese government in domestic and global health areas.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the science of management: the illusion of free will

2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 99-113 ◽  
Author(s):  
Florian Vauleon
Keyword(s):  
Political System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Natural State ◽  
The Political ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Epistolary Novel ◽  
The Social ◽  
Innovative Management ◽  
The Innovative Management ◽  
Science Of Management

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to focus on Rousseau's three major works: the epistolary novel Julia. Or, The New Eloisa, one of the eighteenth century's best sellers, the political essay The Social Contract, and the pedagogical treatise Emile: or On Education. It seeks to explore the innovative management theories Rousseau develops as he embarks in the simultaneous composition of these three major works, particularly as he conceptualizes his ideal society and envisions a brand new political system, one that would take into account the natural state of humankind in order to socialize them more efficiently. Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores Rousseau's solution to these obstacles, and examines his understanding of censorship, as well as the surreptitious control of people's values, tastes, and aspirations. His vision of humanity is very similar to that of “a machine to be put together by skillful devices”, assuming “that the materials of which it is composed are colorless and lifeless”. Findings – The conclusions reached in this paper hinge upon, in significant part, Rousseau's approach to management science, and the individual's subjection to authority, as well as the overarching necessity for any form of power to be imperceptible. Originality/value – The paper shows that in Rousseau's mind, people are mere pawns on the political chessboard, “to be arranged by the fancy of the legislator.”

scholarly journals Trump’s presidency: the future of American tourism industry

2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 8-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anh Viet Le
Keyword(s):  
Political System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Tourism Industry ◽  
Destination Image ◽  
The Political ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Future

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide the author’s opinion about the future of American tourism under Trump’s presidency. Design/methodology/approach This paper relies on secondary data. Findings The influences of Trump’s presidency on American tourism will be on both sides. It will influence the destination image. It will also influence the relationships between America with several countries such as: China, Mexico, UK. Originality/value Contributes to the knowledge about the future of American tourism when the political system is changed.

The viable system model and its applications in higher education: an overview

Kybernetes ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 48 (3) ◽  
pp. 438-450 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sahar Saeed Rezk ◽  
Shahinaz Gamal
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
System Model ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Viable System Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Viable Systems ◽  
Surrounding Environment ◽  
Viable System ◽  
And Control

Purpose Viable system model (VSM) is a powerful tool mainly used to describe, solve and control systems’ complex problems autonomously. It enables systems to be flexible so that they can survive by rapidly responding and adapting their behaviors to any expected or even unexpected changes in the surrounding environment. This study aims to provide a literature review of the VSM as a conceptual framework for designing viable systems, and its applications in the field of higher education (HE). Design/methodology/approach The review is based on explaining “What is organizational cybernetics?”, clarifying the principles of the VSM as a rational model for designing viable organizations, discussing its drawbacks and the extended VSM, and then presenting a literature review of VSM applications in HE based on papers mainly published from 1993 to 2017. Findings Although there are many contributions provided by applying the VSM in HE, the previous developed models used Beer’s framework with its drawbacks without referring to some important factors neglected within it which are discussed in this review. Originality/value The study presents a summary of previous research on this topic and clarifies the essential issues needed to be addressed to design viable systems. Based on the gaps identified in the literature, some issues have been emphasized to be addressed in future research.

Nationalism, part of the identity of East Timor

2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 375-381
Author(s):  
Jean A. Berlie
Keyword(s):  
National Identity ◽  
Political Science ◽  
Political System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Science Research ◽  
East Timor ◽  
The Political ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Third

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the just and highly praised Timorese nationalism leading to independence, deal, in particular, with the attitude of the East Timorese and raise questions about their national identity. Design/methodology/approach This paper is largely based on an anthropological and political science research with interviews. Findings East Timor’s nationalism is unique and formerly linked to Liurai chiefs. Political nationalism is discussed in the third part of the paper. Originality/value This research is the first of its kind. East Timor research is mainly centered in the period 1975–1999 of Indonesian occupation. The concepts nationalism, identity and politics are under-researched concepts in East Timor. There the political system is unique.

Seeing a case study through a cybernetic epistemological lens

Kybernetes ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 40 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 1273-1296 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raul Espejo
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
System Model ◽  
Change Processes ◽  
Viable System Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Viable System ◽  
Successful Production

PurposeThis paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the knowledge that Beer's viable system model helps when applied to the study of change processes in organisations.Design/methodology/approachThis paper develops a case study constructed on interviews and shared reflections by the author and a key player in the company. Aspects of the case study are then seen with an epistemological lens.FindingsWhile it is apparent that ideas, purposes, values or policies depend on resources to happen, this paper argues that it is necessary their embodying in effective relations to succeed creating and producing desirable meanings.Research limitations/implicationsSome forms of embodiment are more effective than others. The viable system model offers embodiment criteria to increase the chances of a successful production of ideas, purposes, values and policies, and the case study shows that for this purpose a limitation is transforming long‐established relationships.Originality/valueThis paper uses a particular and unique situation to illustrate through the viable system model some of the general difficulties that organisations face in achieving desirable transformations.

Getting out the truth: the role of libraries in the fight against fake news

2017 ◽  
Vol 45 (2) ◽  
pp. 143-148 ◽  
Author(s):  
Oliver Batchelor
Keyword(s):  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Political System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
The Political ◽  
Fake News ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Library Professionals

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to inform library professionals on the issues, impact and methods of addressing misinformation in news. Design/methodology/approach This paper discusses the history, scope and impact of fake news and the tools available for correcting misinformation. Findings Fake news and misinformation are widespread and detrimental to democracy. A misinformed electorate undermines the political system. Originality/value The paper does not present original findings, but it presents many useful tools for library professionals to use as a means of promoting critical thinking.

Good social cybernetics is a must in policy processes

Kybernetes ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 44 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 874-890 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raul Espejo
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
System Model ◽  
Viable System Model ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Recursive Structures ◽  
Self Organisation ◽  
Viable System ◽  
Self Reference ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – Illustrate supported by Beer’s Viable System Model and four vignettes the relevance of self-organisation, recursive structures, self-reference and reflexivity in policy processes. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – First, the concepts of self-organisation, recursive structures, self-reference and reflexivity are briefly discussed to ground policy processes in good cybernetics. Then, with the support of four vignettes, the idea of good cybernetics in policy processes is illustrated. Findings – The cybernetics of policy processes is often ignored. Research limitations/implications – If the purpose of this paper were to influence policy makers it would be necessary to further the empirical base of the four vignettes and clarify desirable forums to ground the relevance of self-organisation, recursive structures, self-reference and reflexivity in policy processes. Practical implications – Beer’s recursive structures, self-reference and reflexivity have much to contribute to the betterment of policy processes and the amelioration of the unbearable social and organisational costs of many current policies. Originality/value – The application of concepts such as self-organisation, recursive structures, self-reference and reflexivity adds to the understanding of policy processes.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document