A complexity approach to sustainability - Stafford Beer revisited

Espinosa, A.; Hamden, R.; Walker, J.

Abstract

There is wide acceptance of the need for a more holistic approach to sustainability. However, practical solutions remain elusive and tend to exhibit underlying conflicts between different paradigms and their associated methodologies. This paper argues the need to wield analytical tools that themselves embody the principles of systemic, ecological thinking. We present here a theoretical framework based on complexity science - focused on organisational and second order cybernetics - that highlights our understanding of the concept of sustainability. The paper goes on to reflect upon how current practice would benefit from such an approach. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Citation

Espinosa, A., Hamden, R., & Walker, J. (2008). A complexity approach to sustainability - Stafford Beer revisited. European journal of operational research, 187(2), 636-651. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2007.03.023

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 30, 2007
• Online Publication Date: Jan 13, 2011
• Publication Date: May 1, 2008
• Deposit Date: Nov 13, 2014
• Journal: European Journal Of Operational Research
• Print ISSN: 0377-2217
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 187
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 636-651
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2007.03.023
• Keywords: Management Science and Operations Research; Modelling and Simulation; Information Systems and Management
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/472845
• Publisher URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377221707003591?via%3Dihub