System Science Traditions: Differing Philosophical Assumptions

Abstract

It is in vogue to "take a systems approach," yet what exactly a systems approach is varies considerably depending upon the systems science tradition examined. Systems science traditions tend to share a set of underlying assumptions which are less common in other scientific fields. Still, philosophical assumptions are not common across systems science traditions. We examine six traditions within systems science -- cybernetics, general systems theory, organizational learning, operations research, total quality management, and system dynamics. We then consider seven underlying assumptions -- self-organization, observation, causality, reflexivity, predictability, environment, and relationships. Finally, we assess where each tradition stands with respect to each of the underlying assumptions.