The Meaning of System

2017 ◽  
pp. 67-82
Author(s):  
Steen Leleur
Keyword(s):  
Systems Theory ◽  
Complexity Theory ◽  
Real World ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Theoretical Interest ◽  
Conventional System ◽  
The Core ◽  
Systems Practice ◽  
Actual Meaning ◽  
Current Systems

This article reviews the generic meaning of ‘system' and complements more conventional system notions with a system perception based on recent complexity theory. With system as the core concept of systems theory, its actual meaning is not just of theoretical interest but is highly relevant also for systems practice. It is argued that complexity theory and thinking with reference to Luhmann a.o. ought to be recognised and paid attention to by the systems community. Overall, it is found that a complexity orientation may contribute to extend and enrich the explanatory power of current systems theory when used to complex real-world problems. As regards systems practice it is found that selective use and combination of five presented research approaches (functionalist, interpretive, emancipatory, postmodern and complexity) which function as different but complementing ‘epistemic lenses' in a process described as constructive circularity, may strengthen the exploration and learning efforts in systems-based intervention.

The Meaning of System

2014 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 21-34 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steen Leleur
Keyword(s):  
Systems Theory ◽  
Complexity Theory ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Theoretical Interest ◽  
Core Concept ◽  
The Core ◽  
Systems Practice ◽  
Actual Meaning ◽  
Current Systems ◽  
Real World Problems

This article reviews the generic meaning of ‘system’ and complements more conventional system notions with a system perception based on recent complexity theory. With system as the core concept of systems theory, its actual meaning is not just of theoretical interest but is highly relevant also for systems practice. It is argued that complexity theory and thinking with reference to Luhmann a.o. ought to be recognised and paid attention to by the systems community. Overall, it is found that a complexity orientation may contribute to extend and enrich the explanatory power of current systems theory when used to complex real-world problems. As regards systems practice it is found that selective use and combination of five presented research approaches (functionalist, interpretive, emancipatory, postmodern and complexity) which function as different but complementing ‘epistemic lenses’ in a process described as constructive circularity, may strengthen the exploration and learning efforts in systems-based intervention.

scholarly journals Sublinear domination and core–periphery networks

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Marios Papachristou
Keyword(s):  
Network Model ◽  
Power Law ◽  
Real World ◽  
Random Network ◽  
Small World ◽  
The Core ◽  
Entire Network

AbstractIn this paper we devise a generative random network model with core–periphery properties whose core nodes act as sublinear dominators, that is, if the network has n nodes, the core has size o(n) and dominates the entire network. We show that instances generated by this model exhibit power law degree distributions, and incorporates small-world phenomena. We also fit our model in a variety of real-world networks.

scholarly journals The Dynamics of Musical Participation

2021 ◽  
pp. 102986492098831
Author(s):  
Andrea Schiavio ◽  
Pieter-Jan Maes ◽  
Dylan van der Schyff
Keyword(s):  
Dynamical System ◽  
Dynamical Systems ◽  
Systems Theory ◽  
Dynamical Systems Theory ◽  
Coordination Dynamics ◽  
Musical Experience ◽  
The Core ◽  
Interactive Dynamics ◽  
Interdisciplinary Scholarship ◽  
Core Features

In this paper we argue that our comprehension of musical participation—the complex network of interactive dynamics involved in collaborative musical experience—can benefit from an analysis inspired by the existing frameworks of dynamical systems theory and coordination dynamics. These approaches can offer novel theoretical tools to help music researchers describe a number of central aspects of joint musical experience in greater detail, such as prediction, adaptivity, social cohesion, reciprocity, and reward. While most musicians involved in collective forms of musicking already have some familiarity with these terms and their associated experiences, we currently lack an analytical vocabulary to approach them in a more targeted way. To fill this gap, we adopt insights from these frameworks to suggest that musical participation may be advantageously characterized as an open, non-equilibrium, dynamical system. In particular, we suggest that research informed by dynamical systems theory might stimulate new interdisciplinary scholarship at the crossroads of musicology, psychology, philosophy, and cognitive (neuro)science, pointing toward new understandings of the core features of musical participation.

Beneath the Surface

2016 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Norbert Hornstein ◽  
Kleanthes Grohmann ◽  
Juan Uriagereka ◽  
David Berlinski
Keyword(s):  
Universal Grammar ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
The Core ◽  
Null Case ◽  
Abstract Case

At the core of case lies an abstract, phonetically null Case. The authors discuss how Jean-Roger Vergnaud’s proposal regarding abstract Case enhanced the explanatory power of Universal Grammar.

scholarly journals Inovação em processos: uma empresa metalmecânica analisada sob a ótica da teoria dos sistemas e da teoria da complexidadeInnovation in processes: A metalworking company analyzed from the perspective of systems theory and complexity theory

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (9) ◽  
pp. 161
Author(s):  
João Carlos Parcianello ◽  
Marcos Paulo Dhein Griebeler
Keyword(s):  
Systems Theory ◽  
Complexity Theory

O presente artigo tem por objetivo analisar a inovação em processos na empresa metalmecânica denominada Fábrica de Secadores, Classificadores e Elevadores Ltda. (FASCE). A empresa e suas inovações em processo foram analisadas por intermédio da teoria dos sistemas e da teoria da complexidade, denominadas simplesmente por sistemas abertos complexos, expostas inicialmente no referencial teórico. A ênfase dada ao tratamento da informação, principalmente por meio de um gatekeeper, potencializa o desenvolvimento de inovações em processo na empresa. O entendimento de que as partes do sistema se relacionam entre si, com o próprio sistema e este com outros sistemas – sistema aberto – desvenda uma série de interações complexas, as quais permitem a sobrevivência e o desenvolvimento da empresa, da mesma maneira que um sistema vivo. As inovações em processo na empresa FASCE propiciam um eficiente desenvolvimento empresarial, pois auxiliam a torná-la competitiva.

scholarly journals Real Time Blind Source Separation in Reverberant Environments

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Timothy Sherry
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Blind Source Separation ◽  
Real World ◽  
Source Separation ◽  
Real World Data ◽  
The Core ◽  
Reverberant Environments ◽  
Ica Algorithm ◽  
Stationary Sources ◽  
Convolutive Blind Source Separation

<p>An online convolutive blind source separation solution has been developed for use in reverberant environments with stationary sources. Results are presented for simulation and real world data. The system achieves a separation SINR of 16.8 dB when operating on a two source mixture, with a total acoustic delay was 270 ms. This is on par with, and in many respects outperforms various published algorithms [1],[2]. A number of instantaneous blind source separation algorithms have been developed, including a block wise and recursive ICA algorithm, and a clustering based algorithm, able to obtain up to 110 dB SIR performance. The system has been realised in both Matlab and C, and is modular, allowing for easy update of the ICA algorithm that is the core of the unmixing process.</p>

Technologies of (in)security: Masculinity and the complexity of neoliberalism

2021 ◽  
pp. 146470012110463
Author(s):  
Steve Garlick
Keyword(s):  
Systems Theory ◽  
Complexity Theory ◽  
Critical Analysis ◽  
Judith Butler ◽  
Economic Systems ◽  
Complex Systems Theory ◽  
William Connolly ◽  
Critical Account ◽  
Men And Masculinities ◽  
Feminist Work

Although there is much feminist work that has examined the intersection of gender and neoliberalism, critical work on men and masculinities remains underdeveloped in this area. This article suggests that complexity theory is a crucial resource for a critical analysis of the ways in which masculinities contribute to the ongoing maintenance of neoliberal socio-economic systems. Critical work on neoliberalism and capitalist economics has recently been drawn to complex systems theory, as evidenced by the work of scholars such as Sylvia Walby, William Connolly and Brian Massumi. Their work produces important insights into neoliberalism, but does not develop a sustained reflection on the place of men and masculinities in this domain. In order to develop a critical account of the relation of masculinity to complexity, the article draws on the work of Judith Butler and Bonnie Mann. It suggests that Butler’s theorising on precariousness contains important resources for understanding how hegemonic masculinities are positioned in relation to the complexity of neoliberal systems, as illustrated in Mann’s concept of ‘sovereign masculinity’. Finally, drawing on two different examples of the enactment of masculinities in neoliberal contexts, the article argues that hegemonic forms of masculinity can be understood as technologies for the amelioration of the complexities and insecurities generated by neoliberal markets.

Developmental affective neuroscience describes mechanisms at the core of dynamic systems theory

2005 ◽  
Vol 28 (2) ◽  
pp. 217-218 ◽  
Author(s):  
Allan N. Schore
Keyword(s):  
Systems Theory ◽  
Limbic System ◽  
Dynamic Systems ◽  
Emotional Processing ◽  
Affective Neuroscience ◽  
Dynamic Systems Theory ◽  
Limbic Structures ◽  
The Core ◽  
Developmental Neuroscience ◽  
Emotional Value

Lewis describes the developmental core of dynamic systems theory. I offer recent data from developmental neuroscience on the sequential experience-dependent maturation of components of the limbic system over the stages of infancy. Increasing interconnectivity within the vertically integrated limbic system allows for more complex appraisals of emotional value. The earliest organization of limbic structures has an enduring impact on all later emotional processing.

The Nature and Areas of Technoethical Inquiry

2010 ◽  
pp. 86-107
Author(s):  
Luppicini Rocci
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Base ◽  
Real World ◽  
Systems Approach ◽  
Knowledge Building ◽  
Human Life ◽  
Ethical Aspects ◽  
The Core ◽  
Interdisciplinary Knowledge ◽  
Comprehensive Picture ◽  
Cross Fertilization

As illustrated in the preceding chapters, social and ethical concerns about technology are multifaceted and cannot be resolved through methods derived from any one discipline. Instead, a multi-tiered approach that draws on an interdisciplinary knowledge base is recommended to guide a proper technoethical inquiry advanced through knowledge and insights derived from multiple disciplines and literatures. This approach is desirable for achieving a more comprehensive picture of technology at the core of human life and society. Knowledge derived from the cross-fertilization of relevant areas of inquiry represents a potentially powerful set of knowledge building tools that can be used for maximizing the positive and minimizing the negative ethical aspects of technology in society. To this end, a systems approach to technoethical inquiry (chapter 4) was highlighted as an ideal methodology for studying the multi-faceted nature of ethical aspects of technology. This, however, does not negate the use of other methods and tools available to guide technoethical inquiry. Neither does it capture the nature and scope of technoethical inquiry within the real world of technology and humans.

scholarly journals The constitution of the alcoholic self, communicative processes and administrative practices: On the varied uses of four terms denoting problematic drinking

2020 ◽  
pp. 145507252096949
Author(s):  
Filip Roumeliotis ◽  
Frida Carlsson ◽  
Linn Johansson Erkenfelt ◽  
Lisa Wallander
Keyword(s):  
Social Workers ◽  
Previous Experience ◽  
Administrative Practices ◽  
Problematic Drinking ◽  
Stakeholder Groups ◽  
Systems Practice ◽  
Actual Meaning ◽  
To Come ◽  
Group Interviews ◽  
Definition Of

Aims: The aims of this article were to examine the various meanings ascribed by three stakeholder groups – social workers, journalists and individuals with previous experience of problematic drinking – to four widely used terms in the alcohol field – alcoholism, alcohol dependence, alcohol misuse and risky drinking – and to examine how variations in the definitions of these terms correspond to specific pragmatic needs arising within different practices. Design: We conducted focus-group interviews with 15 individuals from the above-mentioned stakeholder groups. We identified three practices, we identified three practices which shaped the meanings ascribed to the four terms denoting problematic drinking. Results: The results showed that the meanings ascribed to the four terms were both fixed and fluid. For the individuals with previous experience of problematic drinking, the four terms had fixed meanings, and their definition of the term “alcoholism” as denoting a disease, for example, was vital to the practice through which they sought to come to an understanding of themselves (“practice of self”). The social workers and the journalists on the other hand saw the four terms as being context dependent – as fluid and imprecise. This allowed them to establish trustful communicative relationships with informants and clients (“practice of trustful communication”), and to control the communicative process and successfully navigate between different administrative systems (“practice of administration”). Conclusions: Since the meanings ascribed to the examined terms denoting problematic drinking are shaped within varying practices, confusion regarding the actual meaning of a given term could be avoided by referring to the practical context in which it is used.

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