Gain thinking skills to navigate real-world complexities

What is Relationship ?

In systems thinking, the focus is on relationships rather than the individual elements within a system. These connections—whether causal, correlational, feedback loops, direct, or indirect—are what define and shape the elements they link. By studying how these parts interact and relate to each other, we gain a clearer understanding of complex systems.

Additional Glossary Terms

Dynamics and Loops

Dynamics and Loops refer to the shift from linear cause-and-effect relationships to circular, interconnected ones. This concept emphasizes the importance of feedback loops—where elements within a system influence each other

Critical Systems Thinking (CST)

Critical Systems Thinking (CST) is second-order endeavor that that critically examines the philosophical and theoretical foundations of various systems methodologies. It acknowledges that real-world problems are inherently complex, multifaceted, and

Philosophy

Philosophy, at its core, is a discipline that explores fundamental questions about the universe, human existence, and our understanding of concepts such as truth, morality, and knowledge. It provides a

Wicked Problem

Wicked Problem is a term coined by Rittel and Webber in 1973 to describe complex issues that are challenging both to define and solve. These problems are typically multifaceted, ambiguous,

Messes

The term “mess,” coined by Russell Ackoff, refers to a complex system of interconnected problems that cannot be addressed in isolation. It emphasizes that attempting to solve individual problems within

Tektology

Alexander Bogdanov coined the term “tektology” or “the science of structures” from the Greek word “tekton” which means “builder.” Tektology was the initial effort in the history of science to