Philosophical Foundations of Systems Research
This chapter serves as introduction to the evolution of systems theory and practice in order to articulate a framework for systems research. It begins with a discussion of the meaning and significance of systems research, articulating both a distinction a
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Philosophical Foundations of Systems Research Debora Hammond
Abstract This chapter serves as introduction to the evolution of systems theory and practice in order to articulate a framework for systems research. It begins with a discussion of the meaning and significance of systems research, articulating both a distinction and a relationship between research into the nature of systems and a systemic approach to research. The chapter then outlines a cyclical framework based on relational theory, as initially conceived by Robert Rosen and further elaborated by John Kineman, which will provide a meta-theoretical orientation and organizational framework for the remainder of the book. In order to establish a historical and theoretical context for the book, the chapter explores the evolution of the systems concept, and briefly summarizes developments in the broad ranging systems field, beginning with an overview of applied systems approaches, including both systems technology and systems design, and continuing with an exploration into the various theoretical orientations in the systems sciences. Building on this background, the chapter outlines the ontological, epistemological, and ethical considerations that inform research into systems, as well as a systemic approach to research, suggesting a potential, and perhaps critical, role for the proposed conceptual framework in facilitating a greater integration between these two approaches. Finally, it highlights the qualities of inclusivity, collaboration, and holistic thinking inherent in systems research. Keywords Systems theory • Systems practice • Theoretical context • Ontology • Epistemology • Ethics • Inclusivity • Collaboration
Thinking systemically is inherently collaborative. (Williams & Hummelbrunner, 2010, p. vii)
D. Hammond Interdisciplinary Studies, Hutchins School of Liberal Studies, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA, USA © Springer Science+Business Media Singapore 2017 M.C. Edson et al. (eds.), A Guide to Systems Research, Translational Systems Sciences 10, DOI 10.1007/978-981-10-0263-2_1
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D. Hammond
Systems Research: What and Why The concept of systems research could be seen to have at least two distinct though related meanings: doing research from a systems perspective or doing research into the nature of systems. In offering a text on systems research, the authors seek, first, to offer a framework and approach that will be relevant from either standpoint, and perhaps also facilitate greater integration between the two. Second, we have organized this book to provide a comprehensive overview of theory, practice, and methodology relevant to such an approach.
Defining Research At the most basic, all research might be seen as gathering information to inform action. Ultimately, it is part of a circular process of ongoing learning, based on previously obtained knowledge and experience. The scientific method involves, first, the recognition of a particular area of interest—a problem, situation, event, physical phenomenon, and so forth—that r
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