Systems Metamethodology

Abstract

As argued previously, the principal aim of systems science is to understand the phenomenon of systemhood as completely as possible. The first step in achieving this aim is to divide the whole spectrum of conceivable systems into significant categories. The second step is to study the individual categories of systems and their relationship, and to organize the categories into a coherent whole. The third step is to study systems problems that emerge from the underlying set of organized systems categories. Finally, we address methodological issues regarding the various types of systems problems.

Nothing is best, nothing is worst.

Each thing, seen in its own light,

Stands out in its own way.

It can seem to be “better”

Than what is compared with it

On its own terms.

But seen in terms of the whole,

No one thing stands out as “better”.

Chuang Tzu