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General Systems Toolkit

by Russell A. Dewey, PhD
Table of Contents

Preface

The Beginnings of General System Theory

Different Approaches to General System Theory

What is a General System Principle

Important Characteristics of Systems

Defining a System

Hierarchical Structure: The Architecture of Complexity

Emergence

Self-Organization

Efficiency of Modular Construction

Top Down vs Bottom-Up Processing

Networks

Open Systems

Equifinality

Negative Feedback

Positive Feedback

Rhythmic Behavior in Systems

Rhythmic Behavior in Systems

Synchronization

Amplification and Damping

Growth Processes

Growth Phenomena

Linear vs. Exponential Growth

Saltatory Processes

Creativity: Variation with Selective Retention

Truth-Telling

Truth and Non-trivial Prediction

Triangulation and Convergence

Tautology: Not Always Bad

The Future of General Systems

Addenda

Image Credits

21 Principles in this Toolkit



Send email to Dr. Dewey