Thinking in systems : a primer

"Thinking in Systems is a concise and crucial book offering insight for problem-solving on scales ranging from the personal to the global. This essential primer brings systems thinking out of the realm of computers and equations and into the tangible world showing readers how to develop the systems-thinking skills that thought leaders across the globe consider critical for 21st-century life. While readers will learn the conceptual tools and methods of systems thinking the heart of the book is grander than methodology. Donella Meadows was known as much for nurturing positive outcomes as she was for delving into the science behind global dilemmas. She reminds readers to pay attention to what is important not just what is quantifiable to stay humble and to continue to learn. In a world growing ever more complicated crowded and interdependent Thinking in Systems helps readers avoid confusion and helplessness the first step toward finding proactive and effective solutions. A vital read for students professionals and all those concerned with economics business sustainability and the environment"--Provided by publisher. Content: Introduction: the systems lens -- System structures and behavior -- The basics -- A brief visit to the systems zoo -- Systems and us -- Why systems work so well -- Why systems surprise us -- Systems traps...and opportunities -- Creating change--in systems and in our philosophy Leverage points--places to intervene in a system -- Living in a world of systems -- Appendix -- System definitions: a glossary -- Summary of systems principles -- Springing the system trap -- Places to intervene in a system -- Guidelines for living in a world of systems -- Model equations. Abstract: Offers insight for problem-solving on scales ranging from the personal to the global. This primer brings systems thinking out of the realm of computers and equations and into the tangible world, showing readers how to develop the systems-thinking skills that thought leaders across the globe consider critical for 21st-century life. Read more... Introduction: the systems lens System structures and behavior The basics A brief visit to the systems zoo Systems and us Why systems work so well Why systems surprise us Systems traps ... and opportunities Creating change in systems and in our philosophy Leverage points places to intervene in a system Living in a world of systems Appendix System definitions: a glossary Summary of systems principles Springing the system trap Places to intervene in a system Guidelines for living in a world of systems Model equations. A clear, thoughtful, and wide-reaching exploration of complex systems, in theory and in practice. Meadows was a masterful and elegant writer and researcher, and an early voice in systems analysis at MIT and elsewhere. This book, completed from draft manuscript after Meadows' death, is both accessible and deeply thought-provoking. She connects the dots between careful descriptions of systems analysis and systems insights, and the personal, social, societal, and political implications of systems thinking.