International Society for the Systems Sciences: Journals ISSS
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"GOODWILL HUNTING": A METALOGUE ON SETTING UP HUBS TO FOSTER MULTI SPECIES RELATIONSHIPS FOR THE COMMON GOOD
No full textAbstract
Goodwill hunting’ is the title by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck of a movie in 1997. Our paper has (almost) nothing to do with the movie because it is literally about finding ways to create and build on good will for the common good of multiple species; but it does have something in common as it is about building relationships through the genius of local wisdom. The paper and panel presentation is in the form of a metalogue and traces the story of setting up multispecies hubs to address what works why and how.
How can we balance the needs of individuals and species? How can we scale up local wisdom by working locally and at the wider level? Is the subsidiarity principle scalable? We discuss old and new wisdom to promote turning points for the better through a community of practice. It is structured in the form of a metalogue on what multispecies relationships imply together with Indigenous custodians and community facilitators in South Africa , Australia and Indonesia.
In line with the latest IPCC synthesis report (2023) this paper works with local policy knowledge holders using a metalogue approach . The participants include academics and practitioners who are concerned about climate change and who understand the implications of species apartheid. Members of the community of practice lead local hubs using mixed methods for participatory engagement. A metalogue approach originally refers to reflection on ideas and was first used by Gregory Bateson in “ Ecology of Mind” (Bateson, 1972). The way we use it is to engages in a series of policy conversations that strive to make sense of so-called contextual warm data , a term used by Nora Bateson (2021) to support deeper local understanding. We also reflect on our participation in an SDD led by AnonX and AnonY. The SDD process entails engagement based on generating ideas in response to an agreed triggering question, grouping ideas into clusters , ranking, voting on the most important ideas and considering which ideas are vital to enable achieving specific outcomes. On the 11th March we met together as a community of practice to discuss maps of ideas generated in the structured democratic dialogue comprising 52 members. From 36 ideas clusters were formed and then these form three layers of ideas on which we reflected and voted to produce action plan in the form of maps generated from the ideas. This was followed up by a survey by Anon X and Y to assess significance and feasibility. The result has been raising the enthusiasm of the members of the COP to work on ‘doable’ projects focusing on water security and soil protection to support agroecology and to raise awareness on pollution
ABOUT THE OBJECT AND SUBJECT OF RESEARCH OF THE GENERAL THEORY OF SYSTEMS AS A META-SCIENCE
No full textThe article examines the problems of creating General System Theory (GST) from the perspective of modern epistemology and methodology of science and suggests methods for solving them. In order for the totality of information about systems to become a science, it must have an explicit, real and intentional definition of the idealized object "system in general", have its own disciplinary system paradigm and disciplinary matrix. And in order for the theory of systems to become general, it is necessary that the system paradigm proposed by it, the ontological concepts of "the system in general", the proposed terminology and research methods have a universal or transdisciplinary character. It is noted that the existing definitions of the term "system" do not allow us to identify a system-forming factor and, consequently, to designate an isomorphism that provides the necessary universality and transdisciplinarity of GST. It is shown how the worldview position based on the synthesis of holism and unicentrism allows systemic dualism. The ontological understanding of the "system in general" as an object that transforms matter and energy according to a single order. It is shown that a single order, which determines the unity and wholeness of the object, is a system-forming factor and provides the required system isomorphism. This allows you to build models of the order of development of the system in time and space, to build a hierarchy of already identified system features: elements, connections, orderliness, emergence, wholeness and unity, etc. Practical examples show how objects of different nature can be studied as a system
Integrating Innovative Approaches for River Pollution Control in Developing Countries: The Role of Ecovillages, Permaculture, and Circular Economy
No full textThis paper thoroughly investigates a range of innovative, integrated strategies aimed at tackling river pollution in developing nations. Focused on the implementation of ecovillage pathways, smart ecovillage communities, permaculture, and circular economy principles, the study also considers the contributions of multi-stakeholder decentralized autonomous organization cooperatives (DAO CO-OPs) and the active involvement of the diaspora. Utilizing a comprehensive review of theoretical frameworks alongside empirical research drawn from global applications, this paper assesses the effectiveness and scalability of these strategies in various developing country contexts. The integration of ecovillage pathways and smart communities offers a localized, bottom-up approach to sustainable living and waste management, potentially reducing river pollution at its source. Permaculture practices are examined for their ability to restore natural water cycles and improve land productivity, which in turn diminishes agricultural runoff. Circular economy principles are explored for their capacity to transform waste into a resource, thereby minimizing industrial discharge into waterways. Additionally, the role of DAO CO-OPs in enhancing governance and ensuring that community-driven solutions are sustainable and equitable is critically analyzed. The involvement of diaspora groups provides a unique perspective on leveraging international resources and knowledge for local benefit. The findings suggest that these integrated strategies not only significantly reduce pollution levels but also foster substantial community engagement and economic resilience. The research contributes valuable insights into the implementation of complex environmental management practices, offering practical and actionable recommendations for policymakers, businesses, and civil society organizations. This study promotes a collaborative, holistic approach to environmental governance, encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices that can effectively address the pervasive issue of river pollution in economically developing areas
Clean Rooms And The Productive Sectors That Use Them In Mexico Cleanrooms And The Productive Sectors That Use Them In Mexico
No full textThis work presents the basic concepts about clean rooms (clean rooms); addresses definition, classification in accordance with national NOM and international ISO standards, which regulate everything from the classification of air cleanliness to the classification by the concentration of nano particles; in addition to identifying the types of clean rooms that exist, and the application in the various industries that use them worldwide, with special emphasis on micro electromechanical device laboratories (MEMS), existing in Mexico.
The main objective is to understand the current panorama in Mexico regarding the use of clean rooms in different industries; To this end, a review of the international literature from governmental and academic bodies, some regulatory agencies, such as the International Organization of Standardization or the Atomic Energy Commission; development companies; as well as scientific journals. The research method used in this work is descriptive, based on the narration of facts and data collection, with the purpose of answering the question about the benefits of MEMS manufacturing in Mexico with the use of clean rooms.
The literary review allowed us to acquire greater knowledge about the use of clean rooms in Mexico for the manufacture of MEMS; This, in turn, allows us to reflect on current technological advances, the national and international norms and standards that govern their design and operation, as well as future research on clean rooms for MEMS manufacturing
SYSTEMIC MODEL FOR MANAGING ELECTRIC CHARGING STATIONS IN THE VALLEY OF MEXIC
No full textCurrently, when discussing the cessation of fossil fuel use for human mobility, the immediate thought is the utilization of renewable energy sources stored in batteries to power vehicles. In the specific context of cities, we refer to automobiles using clean technologies for propulsion. This trend is known as electric mobility, which gradually replaces internal combustion vehicles. This contributes to reducing the ecological footprint generated during our daily transportation for various activities. To achieve a complete transition to electric mobility in Mexico, a significant push is required to motivate users, producers, investors, and entrepreneurs to adopt electric cars. Additionally, a technical infrastructure supporting their usability and applying analytical and systemic tools to establish an efficient management model for charging stations is necessary. The systemic model proposes tools to address the current energy management challenges of charging stations in the Valle de México region
Cybernetic Materials for Theory of Intelligent Systems
No full textThis article addresses how second-order cybernetics, as a schema, facilitates the theoretical enablement of intellligent systems without reducing the comprehension of intelligence, as a concept, to passive operationality of “automated optimisation” in so-called artificial intelligence systems. There is a huge chasm of operations and problems which are computationally ineffective in ontology of algorithmic procedural systems. In lieu of proclamation by Kauffman et. al. (2012) “the evolution of life marks the end of a physics world view of law entailed dynamics”, I present a synthetic analysis of various writings on systems theory and cybernetics. I discuss approaches and implications of defining intelligence in terms of “ontological expansion” (Denizhan) or in terms of “eigenfunction problem” (von Foerster). I will go through arguments made by Denizhan, Negarestani, Rosen, Kineman, von Foerster and others and conclude with a discussion on ethical individuation of intelligent systems
Indigenous ways of worlding as systemic understanding of human and more-than-human influence in generating worlds in becoming
No full textIn this paper I explore the participatory onto-epistemology – ways of knowing linked to ways of worlding – expressed by Indigenous sages and scholars in numerous parts of the globe. (The term Indigenous here signals groupings of people who have been subjected to Euro-American colonization.) I point to, and draw out, their systemic approach grounded in the understanding that “things” (including our “selves”) always exist in relation. This ontology – sometimes called a political ontology – implies an axiological commitment to strive to heal relations that have become unbalanced among and between human and more-than-human agents (animals, plants, rivers, etc. whose agency and intelligence too must be respected). It suggests that we need to be alert to how our thinking processes, as part of a community of human and more than-human agents, willy nilly contributes to having influence on/in a world-in-becoming. Otherwise expressed, in terms of this onto-epistemology we are enmeshed in a web of relations in which we shape worlds as we enact our thinking-and-being with others with whom/which we are engaged. This (co)responsibility for world-forming cannot be avoided. I note that an Indigenous systemic outlook has not been highlighted in mainstream accounts of the history of systems thinking and that the superwicked crises such as appropriation of Indigenous lands to make way for the operation of global (extractive) capital, destruction of Indigenous communities along the way, superexploitation of racialized labor across the globe, superexploitation of “cheap nature”, mass extinction of species due to an anthropocentric outlook, etc., have not been given due attention in the mainstream systems literature
KILLING PRINT MEDIA: TUPLES AND MATH IN DEFINING viewability, THE Viewability METRICS, THEIR ISOMORPHISMS, AND OBJECT PRIORITY USER CONTROL
No full textThe problem treated in this paper is to develop metrics for flat, rectangular, display Viewability, (V), metrics, including digital ads. Because Visual Display is such a large part of human communication, being able to numerically measure its effectiveness, by studying visual display sub-genres, is important. Isomorphism is important in systems science, and surprisingly, it turns out that all six of the main sub-genres studied are not only isomorphic--but some at the next lower level--are hierarchically isomorphic—further evidence of a good fit to be studied using systems science. The methodology used in exploring the problem is to operationalize the objects in the, (v), tuple--defined as two areas [viewable area, (A), clutter area (c), and time (t->T), read as t becomes T]--and to let c take on different values relative to A. By induction, the results are taken to apply to all flat, rectangular and generally shaped visual displays. A combination of mathematical symbols, afforded by an equation editor APP, is used to notate expressions and equations. Distinction between numerous variable names and their recognition are enhanced by the first-time use of color in mathematics. Results in this paper include that v is defined as objects in a tuple being two areas and a time. An equation is developed for a V. The value of defining v’s using tuples suggests that a tuple-based database might be a future step toward a GST. Using GoMedia to format this paper suggests that it is time to forego print for presentation scripts, and move closer to the digital age using more of its benefits
A SYSTEMIC PERSPECTIVE ON SUSTAINABLE WATER MANAGEMENT FOR TOURISM VENTURES IN RURAL COMMUNITIES IN MEXICO
No full textSustainable water management and social entrepreneurship are fundamental pillars to promote sustainable development in rural communities, especially in the context of tourism. The availability of quality water in adequate quantity is essential both to meet the daily needs of local inhabitants and to maintain the integrity of ecosystems. This involves promoting conservation, awareness and reuse practices of this water resource. Likewise, it is important to consider aspects of equity and community participation in sustainable water management, involving community members in the planning and execution of water-related initiatives. Collaboration between the tourism sector, local authorities, community organizations and other relevant actors is essential to guarantee sustainable water management and promote tourism development in an equitable and environmentally responsible manner. This research uses the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) to achieve a synthesis of the current situation of complexity between sustainable water management, social entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism in rural communities. The findings reveal challenges in the relationships between government entities, businesses, rural tourist communities and sustainability. The lack of effective policies to support social enterprises limits their ability to contribute to sustainable development. In this way, social entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in sustainable development by promoting autonomy and empowerment in various spheres, including business and society at large. The interaction between social entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism can generate positive impacts on social and environmental aspects, improving the quality of life of local communities. Adopting a systemic approach provides a deeper understanding of this complex relationship, and approaching entrepreneurship from this perspective can drive economic, social and environmental development in communities, maintaining homeostatic balance between economic growth, social well-being and environmental preservation.
Keywords
SSM, Water Management, sustainability, tourism, social entrepreneurship, rural communities
EMPIRICAL SYSTEM DYNAMICS: THE SOCIO ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR DEMOCRACY AND SUSTAINABILITY
No full textEn el estado de Jalisco se encuentra una de las regiones más críticas de México: la subcuenca Santiago-Guadalajara. La importancia de esta región radica en su peso específico en la economía regional. Debido a la producción de tequila, el cultivo de berries y aguacates, y la fabricación de una amplia variedad de productos, la subcuenca es un motor crucial en el proceso de integración de América del Norte. Como resultado, la subcuenca ha experimentado acelerados procesos de degradación socioambiental con importantes implicaciones sociales.
En este contexto, el ensayo describe una herramienta cibernética, un bien público, que tiene como objetivo catalizar dinámicas impulsadas por la comunidad: el Sistema de Información Socioambiental para la Democracia y la Sostenibilidad (SISA).
El ensayo comienza con una introducción en la que se define el área de influencia y se describe el problema de investigación. En la segunda sección se explica el modelo de intervención, conocido como SISA. En la tercera sección se analizan los principales instrumentos de incidencia del modelo: el Índice de Vergüenza y el Deber Ciudadano de Indemnización. En la cuarta sección se analizan los resultados. El ensayo concluye con algunas conclusiones preliminares