systems thinking

A game-changer in the next stage of evolution

Through the power of the systems science revolution we now understand much more about the Earth and climate system. 

Systems approaches also help us understand more about health systems and the human system including our cognition, emotions and habitual patterns.

Causal Loop Diagram of food system for Schumacher publication from Fellow Harald Svedrup (2015)

The Power of Systems Thinking

Radical and Connective

Systems analysis of society and economy is often radical, but always connective. Systems understanding often exposes problems with the way things are currently organised, challenging power.

Normal cells of human connective tissue in culture at a magnification of 500x

New Alliances

Systems approaches can meaningfully link different kinds of knowledge and focus. This can help create the new alliances we need across groups who come to the sustainability agenda via different pathways of interest and concern.

Meandering wadis, Southeastern Jordan. Photo by USGS

Looking below the surface

Without systems thinking, people and organisations can get lost in ‘problem solving’ without considering the deeper drivers and conditions that cause the problems.

Brain Coral, Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia Photo by Daniel Öberg

Multiple Solutions

One great feature of systems approaches is that they suggest multiple solutions across different areas of the problem field which together can add up to more than the sum of the parts.

Piece of Sky - Palazzo Pubblico, Siena Photo by Matteo Kutufa

Systems Framing

Framing key problems from a systems point of view is a necessary first step. Once we have an analysis, we can then look for solutions.

Systems thinking can bring real hope for positive visions strongly rooted in reality.

Examples of the power of systems thinking can be found in our Projects, Research and Events.

Want to experience the power of systems?

Get in touch to find out how you can get involved with our work