Various approaches to problem solving in the natural and social sciences are described, including the systematic view model and model decomposition. The book also presents clear and coherent accounts of systems intervention, critical systems thinking, and quantification of systems science.
Philosophical issues in systems science are comprehensively covered, with discussion on such topics as ontology, epistemology, and methodology.
Other features of the Second Edition include:
- case studies focusing on the application of the viable system model, methodology application, and theory building;
- a list of thought-provoking questions for each chapter to assist educators;
- an introduction to critical systems thinking;
- a chapter on model decomposition;
- and various approaches to problem solving, including systems intervention.