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A review by _walter_
Thinking in Systems: A Primer by Donella H. Meadows
3.0
Not quite what I expected but not entirely disappointed either. For the record, I did study dynamical systems from a purely mathematical standpoint in undergrad and beyond. So I am familiar with the more complex aspects of the models she mentions in the book, which is to say, I found the material a little too high-level. I understand this is meant to be a primer, so I am not dinging for it.
The first few chapters are easier to get through than the middle chapters where there the author's attempt to oversimplify complex situations and behaviors cause the material to lose some of it's efficacy. Also, you can probably skim this book's later chapters by just reading the last paragraph in each section - it could have been half the length.
Here are the main points:
Overall, a good summary of Systems Theory with great advice on how to navigate their complex ins-and-outs.
The first few chapters are easier to get through than the middle chapters where there the author's attempt to oversimplify complex situations and behaviors cause the material to lose some of it's efficacy. Also, you can probably skim this book's later chapters by just reading the last paragraph in each section - it could have been half the length.
Here are the main points:
- A system is an interconnected set of elements that achieves something.
- Systems consist of elements, interconnections, and a function or purpose.
- Understanding a system's purpose requires observing its behavior.
- Stocks are accumulations of material or information at a given time.
- Flows cause stocks to change over time.
- Feedback loops influence system behavior.
- Systems can be deceptive when focusing on individual events.
- Nonlinearities can change the strengths of feedback loops.
- Boundaries are artificially created and may limit understanding.
- Delays are pervasive in systems and affect response times.
- There are various points of intervention in a system.
- Guidelines for living in a world of systems include understanding, challenging mental models, sharing information, using language carefully, focusing on what is important, implementing feedback policies, considering the well-being of the whole system, listening to the wisdom of the system, taking responsibility, maintaining a learning mindset, embracing complexity, expanding time horizons, challenging disciplinary boundaries, broadening the circle of caring, and upholding the goal of goodness.
Overall, a good summary of Systems Theory with great advice on how to navigate their complex ins-and-outs.