Paradigm change in systems thinking is justified and an alternative is suggested. The change of s... more Paradigm change in systems thinking is justified and an alternative is suggested. The change of state of equilibrium from unsatisfactory to acceptable driven by a dynamic system is described as problem solving which is innate and universal in the living sphere. An empirical theory of problem solving is proposed which integrates by design or chance the mental effort of creating the envisaged change with the symbolic structure of 'product-dynamic system'. The elementary structural element is identified as 1-and 2-place sentences, the smallest parts of natural language which make sense and of which complex, linguistic structures can be constructed by following the stages of 'linguistic modelling'. This leads to sequences of predicate logic conditionals, the reasoning structure which may be related to AI. Problem solving theories have a long historical background ending with the current, extensive 'systems thinking' trend but none has come up with a comprehensive, empirical approach the reasons for which is discussed. The proposed theory clarifies the role of conventional science, the arts and engineering in problem solving. It is rooted in current knowledge, involves the use of mathematics and other branches of knowledge, is highly teachable, needs debate, software and other developments.
The activity of problem solving is innate in the living sphere. Associating the concept of change... more The activity of problem solving is innate in the living sphere. Associating the concept of change of state of equilibrium with the change of state of affairs carried by a changing object or agent perceived as unsatisfactory to one that is seen as acceptable, it is possible to extend the notion of problem solving to the inanimate world. An empirical theory of problem solving is proposed which integrates the mental or physical effort of change of state with its driver of the 'system-product structure' created by design or chance. The theory follows the pattern of method of conventional science by identifying the phenomenon as 'problem solving', formulating hypotheses and creating a symbolic structure or model for verifying or falsifying or implementing the hypotheses. The elementary structural element is identified as 1-and 2-place sentences, the smallest parts of natural language which make sense and of which complex, linguistic structures can be constructed by following the stages of 'linguistic modelling'. This leads to sequences of predicate logic conditionals, the reasoning structure which can possibly be related to AI. Problem solving theories have a long historical background ending with the current, extensive 'systems thinking' trend but none has come up with a comprehensive, empirical approach the reasons for which is discussed. The proposed theory clarifies the role of conventional science, the arts and engineering in problem solving. It is rooted in current knowledge, involves the use of mathematics and other branches of knowledge, is highly teachable, needs debate, software and other developments.
The concept of sustainability is identified with the notion of entities or wholes in states of eq... more The concept of sustainability is identified with the notion of entities or wholes in states of equilibrium which brings this concept within the 'systems theory of problem solving'. Use, consumption, destruction, erosion of entities which, to remain in existence, need to be supplied or reconstruct with material, energy, information, impressions and emotions as appropriate. This is the problem of survival or homeostasis and that of creating desirable, or not, changes driven by ambitions and influenced by emotions, in particular those of creation of wealth and desire for power which are instances of problem solving. Changes towards increasing complexity in society brought about by increasingly more sophisticated inventions which are measured by the sequence of Industrial Revolutions, are described. The latest of these is dominated by digital technology. A method of estimating the contribution of this technology to sustainability of stored entities is introduced. Part of 'systems theory of problem solving' is applied to a simple problem of supplying a product to a supermarket for demonstrating this approach which uses logical conditionals similar to AI and needs software development and peer approval. Perhaps this paper can contribute to achieve the aim of the 5 th Industrial Revolution which is to create sustainable products and services through the use of AI and suggests to work towards a more rational approach to problems and less reliance on chance.
, Mini-symposium George Mobus presented his view 'Purpose and mission of the ISSS' of the current... more , Mini-symposium George Mobus presented his view 'Purpose and mission of the ISSS' of the current state of the Society with reference to 2023 Bylaws but the view has implications for the whole of the 'systems thinking industry'. I quote from the 'view' : '…. many members have expressed a desire for the ISSS to get involved in applying systems thinking to find solutions.' 'There is a deep conviction that, indeed, systems thinking holds the key to solving these problems.' 'My view [George's] is that systems thinking need be firmly based on system science.' '…..operates [ISSS] like a book club….' 'Referring to the 2023 Bylaws : 'This purpose reflects the scientific society (SGSR) that was originally intended, but it also recognises a leaning toward systems practice. But the actual ''operation of the society, as mentioned, does not seem to implement the stated purpose.''' Summary There are opinions 'to find solutions', an even stronger view : '… holds the key to solving these problems'. Please note expressions '…. solutions..', '…problems…'. The term 'book club' presumably refers to the highly speculative nature of activity, endless discussions, no tangible outcome, lack of existence of fundamentals and agreement on core concepts and applications, fragmentation. This was also discussed in [Korn J, Crisis in systems thinking, Kybernetes, v49, n7, 2018].
The current discipline of 'systems thinking' is highly speculative about definitions, discussion ... more The current discipline of 'systems thinking' is highly speculative about definitions, discussion of vague ideas, researchers engaged in problems claiming to use 'systems methods' of their own invention because they are unaware of any general 'problem solving scheme' and so on. Methodologies such as the Viable Systems Model, Soft Systems Methodology etc have been more or less forgotten, no wonder since they use vague concepts not clearly related to 'systems thinking', difficult to use, superficially trying to model systems and solving problems. Ideas like 'cybernetics' based on the notion of achievement of a purpose are discussed in vague terms without any outcomes or significant resolution of problems. A confused and fragmented picture has emerged.
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how ordered pairs representing related objects in... more PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how ordered pairs representing related objects in static state are used to create hierarchical structures yielding rapidly increasing choices of complex objects to be selected by objects in their environment and how “purposive systems” evolve for the production of such structures.Design/methodology/approachBasic notions transcending discipline boundaries and natural language formalised into one‐ and two‐place sentences are suggested as related constituents of complexity and hierarchy, the “systemic view”. This leads into sets of ordered pairs and sequences of qualified predicate logic statements forming dynamics of systems.FindingsHierarchies in general can be expressed as ordered pairs. An analytical method for showing how ordered pairs are organised into progressively more complex structures of objects and “products” with increased chances of being selected by environmental objects in evolution or design. Correspondingly, groups of p...
Purpose Three problematic issues followed by paradigm changes over the recent history of human in... more Purpose Three problematic issues followed by paradigm changes over the recent history of human intellectual endeavour are identified as 1. mysticism/superstition to – conventional science (of physics), 2. predominant use of qualitative/quantitative properties for analysis and design to – structural or systemic properties, and 3. current speculative/fragmented, multiple approaches to the “systemic view” to – a firmer knowledge-based approach reflecting the empirical and universal nature of this view. This paper aims to consider the problematic issues, to conclude that conventional science is inadequate to cope with the 2nd paradigm change and to introduce a “new science of systems” which can integrate conventional science and alleviate the 3rd problematic issue by suggesting three principles implemented by linguistic modelling as operational model. Design/methodology/approach The highly successful methodology of conventional science is followed with systemic content by suggesting thr...
International Journal of Systems and Society, 2015
A brief historical description of the ‘systemic view' is given with conclusion of its shortco... more A brief historical description of the ‘systemic view' is given with conclusion of its shortcomings and possible use. This ‘view' is placed in the context of ‘human intellectual endeavour' the constituents of which are evaluated briefly from the point of view of their role and usefulness to people in a society as means of problem solving which is a universal activity of living things. Conventional science of physics turns out to be the most significant constituent with the ‘systemic view' being of little consequence at the moment. Thus, a paradigm change towards a ‘systems science' to follow the methodology of conventional science is suggested and outlined. The new form of ‘systems science' could turn out to be also significant. ‘Systems science' through problem solving and design can act as a carrier for penetration into social awareness.
Lecture Notes of the Institute for Computer Sciences, Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering, 2009
The development of the idea of seeing parts of the world as 'related objects' or the 'systemic vi... more The development of the idea of seeing parts of the world as 'related objects' or the 'systemic view' and its relation to conventional science is briefly described. Concepts in the systemic view regarded as fundamental and their expression as linguistic and mathematical models which would turn this view into 'systems science', are introduced. Products are represented as sets and linguistic networks of ordered pairs. Semantic diagrams describe the dynamics of change. A case study to illustrate the basic notions and models is given.
Science and design of problem solving systems, 2022
The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of... more The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of the world integrated with creative problem solving procedure with the latter generating a 'product and systems' design method. As an alternative to the speculative and fragmented nature of current 'systems thinking' and practice, the book proposes three principles of systems: 'Generality/nested hierarchy, changes of equilibrium states and problem solving/purpose' together with 'linguistic modelling' using processed, natural language or transformation of narratives of scenarios into sequences of logical conditionals, the executor of the principles. Implementation of the creative, innovative, inspirational stage leads to 'design parameters' which guide the detailed design of systems and products defined as any entity capable of generating interaction. Uncertainties and mathematical models are introduced at the object/agent level as required. The theory is 'property driven' i.e., uses qualitative, quantitative properties including social, emotive and other mental states. Elementary, systemic or structural properties are '1-and 2-place simple sentences' which can lead to operational representations when appropriate. Meaning preserving, linguistic transformations convert a narrative or story into such sentences. A user driven approach to the analysis of 'information' is introduced. Recent paradigm changes and problematic issues in current 'systems thinking' are reviewed. The theory is based on accepted branches of knowledge such as linguistics, network theory, biology, physics, chemistry, social science as needed, it is highly teachable, introduces linguistics in addition to mathematics as a symbolic model and can inspire further research. It introduces four criteria for judging the 'soundness' of symbolic models. However, it needs peer review, software development to work out the dynamics of scenarios and further developments for applications to more practical problem situations in organisations, technical and natural circumstances.
The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of... more The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of the world integrated with creative problem solving procedure with the latter generating a 'product and systems' design method. As an alternative to the speculative and fragmented nature of current 'systems thinking' and practice, the book proposes three principles of systems: 'Generality/nested hierarchy, changes of equilibrium states and problem solving/purpose' together with 'linguistic modelling' using processed, natural language or transformation of narratives of scenarios into sequences of logical conditionals, the executor of the principles. Implementation of the creative, innovative, inspirational stage leads to 'design parameters' which guide the detailed design of systems and products defined as any entity capable of generating interaction. Uncertainties and mathematical models are introduced at the object/agent level as required. The theory is 'property driven' i.e., uses qualitative, quantitative properties including social, emotive and other mental states. Elementary, systemic or structural properties are '1-and 2-place simple sentences' which can lead to operational representations when appropriate. Meaning preserving, linguistic transformations convert a narrative or story into such sentences. A user driven approach to the analysis of 'information' is introduced. Recent paradigm changes and problematic issues in current 'systems thinking' are reviewed. The theory is based on accepted branches of knowledge such as linguistics, network theory, biology, physics, chemistry, social science as needed, it is highly teachable, introduces linguistics in addition to mathematics as a symbolic model and can inspire further research. It introduces four criteria for judging the 'soundness' of symbolic models. However, it needs peer review, software development to work out the dynamics of scenarios and further developments for applications to more practical problem situations in organisations, technical and natural circumstances.
Paradigm change in systems thinking is justified and an alternative is suggested. The change of s... more Paradigm change in systems thinking is justified and an alternative is suggested. The change of state of equilibrium from unsatisfactory to acceptable driven by a dynamic system is described as problem solving which is innate and universal in the living sphere. An empirical theory of problem solving is proposed which integrates by design or chance the mental effort of creating the envisaged change with the symbolic structure of 'product-dynamic system'. The elementary structural element is identified as 1-and 2-place sentences, the smallest parts of natural language which make sense and of which complex, linguistic structures can be constructed by following the stages of 'linguistic modelling'. This leads to sequences of predicate logic conditionals, the reasoning structure which may be related to AI. Problem solving theories have a long historical background ending with the current, extensive 'systems thinking' trend but none has come up with a comprehensive, empirical approach the reasons for which is discussed. The proposed theory clarifies the role of conventional science, the arts and engineering in problem solving. It is rooted in current knowledge, involves the use of mathematics and other branches of knowledge, is highly teachable, needs debate, software and other developments.
The activity of problem solving is innate in the living sphere. Associating the concept of change... more The activity of problem solving is innate in the living sphere. Associating the concept of change of state of equilibrium with the change of state of affairs carried by a changing object or agent perceived as unsatisfactory to one that is seen as acceptable, it is possible to extend the notion of problem solving to the inanimate world. An empirical theory of problem solving is proposed which integrates the mental or physical effort of change of state with its driver of the 'system-product structure' created by design or chance. The theory follows the pattern of method of conventional science by identifying the phenomenon as 'problem solving', formulating hypotheses and creating a symbolic structure or model for verifying or falsifying or implementing the hypotheses. The elementary structural element is identified as 1-and 2-place sentences, the smallest parts of natural language which make sense and of which complex, linguistic structures can be constructed by following the stages of 'linguistic modelling'. This leads to sequences of predicate logic conditionals, the reasoning structure which can possibly be related to AI. Problem solving theories have a long historical background ending with the current, extensive 'systems thinking' trend but none has come up with a comprehensive, empirical approach the reasons for which is discussed. The proposed theory clarifies the role of conventional science, the arts and engineering in problem solving. It is rooted in current knowledge, involves the use of mathematics and other branches of knowledge, is highly teachable, needs debate, software and other developments.
The concept of sustainability is identified with the notion of entities or wholes in states of eq... more The concept of sustainability is identified with the notion of entities or wholes in states of equilibrium which brings this concept within the 'systems theory of problem solving'. Use, consumption, destruction, erosion of entities which, to remain in existence, need to be supplied or reconstruct with material, energy, information, impressions and emotions as appropriate. This is the problem of survival or homeostasis and that of creating desirable, or not, changes driven by ambitions and influenced by emotions, in particular those of creation of wealth and desire for power which are instances of problem solving. Changes towards increasing complexity in society brought about by increasingly more sophisticated inventions which are measured by the sequence of Industrial Revolutions, are described. The latest of these is dominated by digital technology. A method of estimating the contribution of this technology to sustainability of stored entities is introduced. Part of 'systems theory of problem solving' is applied to a simple problem of supplying a product to a supermarket for demonstrating this approach which uses logical conditionals similar to AI and needs software development and peer approval. Perhaps this paper can contribute to achieve the aim of the 5 th Industrial Revolution which is to create sustainable products and services through the use of AI and suggests to work towards a more rational approach to problems and less reliance on chance.
, Mini-symposium George Mobus presented his view 'Purpose and mission of the ISSS' of the current... more , Mini-symposium George Mobus presented his view 'Purpose and mission of the ISSS' of the current state of the Society with reference to 2023 Bylaws but the view has implications for the whole of the 'systems thinking industry'. I quote from the 'view' : '…. many members have expressed a desire for the ISSS to get involved in applying systems thinking to find solutions.' 'There is a deep conviction that, indeed, systems thinking holds the key to solving these problems.' 'My view [George's] is that systems thinking need be firmly based on system science.' '…..operates [ISSS] like a book club….' 'Referring to the 2023 Bylaws : 'This purpose reflects the scientific society (SGSR) that was originally intended, but it also recognises a leaning toward systems practice. But the actual ''operation of the society, as mentioned, does not seem to implement the stated purpose.''' Summary There are opinions 'to find solutions', an even stronger view : '… holds the key to solving these problems'. Please note expressions '…. solutions..', '…problems…'. The term 'book club' presumably refers to the highly speculative nature of activity, endless discussions, no tangible outcome, lack of existence of fundamentals and agreement on core concepts and applications, fragmentation. This was also discussed in [Korn J, Crisis in systems thinking, Kybernetes, v49, n7, 2018].
The current discipline of 'systems thinking' is highly speculative about definitions, discussion ... more The current discipline of 'systems thinking' is highly speculative about definitions, discussion of vague ideas, researchers engaged in problems claiming to use 'systems methods' of their own invention because they are unaware of any general 'problem solving scheme' and so on. Methodologies such as the Viable Systems Model, Soft Systems Methodology etc have been more or less forgotten, no wonder since they use vague concepts not clearly related to 'systems thinking', difficult to use, superficially trying to model systems and solving problems. Ideas like 'cybernetics' based on the notion of achievement of a purpose are discussed in vague terms without any outcomes or significant resolution of problems. A confused and fragmented picture has emerged.
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how ordered pairs representing related objects in... more PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how ordered pairs representing related objects in static state are used to create hierarchical structures yielding rapidly increasing choices of complex objects to be selected by objects in their environment and how “purposive systems” evolve for the production of such structures.Design/methodology/approachBasic notions transcending discipline boundaries and natural language formalised into one‐ and two‐place sentences are suggested as related constituents of complexity and hierarchy, the “systemic view”. This leads into sets of ordered pairs and sequences of qualified predicate logic statements forming dynamics of systems.FindingsHierarchies in general can be expressed as ordered pairs. An analytical method for showing how ordered pairs are organised into progressively more complex structures of objects and “products” with increased chances of being selected by environmental objects in evolution or design. Correspondingly, groups of p...
Purpose Three problematic issues followed by paradigm changes over the recent history of human in... more Purpose Three problematic issues followed by paradigm changes over the recent history of human intellectual endeavour are identified as 1. mysticism/superstition to – conventional science (of physics), 2. predominant use of qualitative/quantitative properties for analysis and design to – structural or systemic properties, and 3. current speculative/fragmented, multiple approaches to the “systemic view” to – a firmer knowledge-based approach reflecting the empirical and universal nature of this view. This paper aims to consider the problematic issues, to conclude that conventional science is inadequate to cope with the 2nd paradigm change and to introduce a “new science of systems” which can integrate conventional science and alleviate the 3rd problematic issue by suggesting three principles implemented by linguistic modelling as operational model. Design/methodology/approach The highly successful methodology of conventional science is followed with systemic content by suggesting thr...
International Journal of Systems and Society, 2015
A brief historical description of the ‘systemic view' is given with conclusion of its shortco... more A brief historical description of the ‘systemic view' is given with conclusion of its shortcomings and possible use. This ‘view' is placed in the context of ‘human intellectual endeavour' the constituents of which are evaluated briefly from the point of view of their role and usefulness to people in a society as means of problem solving which is a universal activity of living things. Conventional science of physics turns out to be the most significant constituent with the ‘systemic view' being of little consequence at the moment. Thus, a paradigm change towards a ‘systems science' to follow the methodology of conventional science is suggested and outlined. The new form of ‘systems science' could turn out to be also significant. ‘Systems science' through problem solving and design can act as a carrier for penetration into social awareness.
Lecture Notes of the Institute for Computer Sciences, Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering, 2009
The development of the idea of seeing parts of the world as 'related objects' or the 'systemic vi... more The development of the idea of seeing parts of the world as 'related objects' or the 'systemic view' and its relation to conventional science is briefly described. Concepts in the systemic view regarded as fundamental and their expression as linguistic and mathematical models which would turn this view into 'systems science', are introduced. Products are represented as sets and linguistic networks of ordered pairs. Semantic diagrams describe the dynamics of change. A case study to illustrate the basic notions and models is given.
Science and design of problem solving systems, 2022
The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of... more The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of the world integrated with creative problem solving procedure with the latter generating a 'product and systems' design method. As an alternative to the speculative and fragmented nature of current 'systems thinking' and practice, the book proposes three principles of systems: 'Generality/nested hierarchy, changes of equilibrium states and problem solving/purpose' together with 'linguistic modelling' using processed, natural language or transformation of narratives of scenarios into sequences of logical conditionals, the executor of the principles. Implementation of the creative, innovative, inspirational stage leads to 'design parameters' which guide the detailed design of systems and products defined as any entity capable of generating interaction. Uncertainties and mathematical models are introduced at the object/agent level as required. The theory is 'property driven' i.e., uses qualitative, quantitative properties including social, emotive and other mental states. Elementary, systemic or structural properties are '1-and 2-place simple sentences' which can lead to operational representations when appropriate. Meaning preserving, linguistic transformations convert a narrative or story into such sentences. A user driven approach to the analysis of 'information' is introduced. Recent paradigm changes and problematic issues in current 'systems thinking' are reviewed. The theory is based on accepted branches of knowledge such as linguistics, network theory, biology, physics, chemistry, social science as needed, it is highly teachable, introduces linguistics in addition to mathematics as a symbolic model and can inspire further research. It introduces four criteria for judging the 'soundness' of symbolic models. However, it needs peer review, software development to work out the dynamics of scenarios and further developments for applications to more practical problem situations in organisations, technical and natural circumstances.
The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of... more The book is about an empirical, systems theory of a general, systemic/structural view of parts of the world integrated with creative problem solving procedure with the latter generating a 'product and systems' design method. As an alternative to the speculative and fragmented nature of current 'systems thinking' and practice, the book proposes three principles of systems: 'Generality/nested hierarchy, changes of equilibrium states and problem solving/purpose' together with 'linguistic modelling' using processed, natural language or transformation of narratives of scenarios into sequences of logical conditionals, the executor of the principles. Implementation of the creative, innovative, inspirational stage leads to 'design parameters' which guide the detailed design of systems and products defined as any entity capable of generating interaction. Uncertainties and mathematical models are introduced at the object/agent level as required. The theory is 'property driven' i.e., uses qualitative, quantitative properties including social, emotive and other mental states. Elementary, systemic or structural properties are '1-and 2-place simple sentences' which can lead to operational representations when appropriate. Meaning preserving, linguistic transformations convert a narrative or story into such sentences. A user driven approach to the analysis of 'information' is introduced. Recent paradigm changes and problematic issues in current 'systems thinking' are reviewed. The theory is based on accepted branches of knowledge such as linguistics, network theory, biology, physics, chemistry, social science as needed, it is highly teachable, introduces linguistics in addition to mathematics as a symbolic model and can inspire further research. It introduces four criteria for judging the 'soundness' of symbolic models. However, it needs peer review, software development to work out the dynamics of scenarios and further developments for applications to more practical problem situations in organisations, technical and natural circumstances.
Problem solving, systems thinking, and design thinking are disciplines practiced by all human bei... more Problem solving, systems thinking, and design thinking are disciplines practiced by all human beings and some higher animals. They are necessary in our efforts to achieve our goals and to survive. Problem solving is innate in all living things and its interpretation as a change of equilibrium makes it applicable throughout the inanimate world. However, the following problems are associated with these disciplines as practised in Western society today. Firstly, due to the highly specialist nature of society, formal processes have been developed in separate silos. Secondly, this formalisation has been founded on few, if any, fundamental concepts derived from the empirical world. Consequently, the language used to express them can be imprecise and lacking in confidence. Finally, these formalisations are practiced, by and large, in isolation from the rest of the field of intellectual endeavour.
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Papers by janos korn