Generalization and Systemic Epistemology: Why Should It Make Sense

Abstract:     
This paper argues that true ‘systemic’ epistemology should reveal multiple perspectives, conflicting realities and various other contexts due to its inherent pluralistic nature. Therefore, generalization in systems research occurs not across one linear conceptual framework but across the variety of nonlinear, conflicting, dialectal ‘realities’. It is therefore a misunderstanding of systems research to search for linear, singular and non-conflicting versions of events as though there is one overarching ‘mega concept’ that will explain world events. The paper presents the hallmarks of a systemic epistemology. Using an example the nature of a systems epistemology is demonstrated and explained. The paper concludes that a ‘systemic’ epistemology is one that should reflect a ‘systemic’ reality

Keywords: systems research, systems thinking, epistemology

JEL Classification: P24

working papers series