The General Systems Theory, by Ludwig von Bertalanffy

This interesting theory is used in Psychology and Sociology as well as in Mathematics, Economics, etc.

It is known as "systems theory" to a set of interdisciplinary contributions that aim to study the characteristics that define systems, i.e., entities formed by interrelated and interdependent components.

One of the first contributions to this field was Ludwig von Bertalanff's general systems theory and. This model has had a great influence on the scientific perspective and remains a fundamental reference in the analysis of systems, such as families and other human groups.

Bertalanffy's systems theory

German biologist Karl Ludwig von Bertalanffy (1901-1972) proposed in 1928 his general theory of systems as a broad tool that could be shared by many different sciences.

This theory contributed to the emergence of a new scientific paradigm based on the interrelationship between the elements that make up systems. Previously it was considered that systems as a whole were equal to the sum of their parts, and that they could be studied from the individual analysis of their components; Bertalanffy questioned such beliefs.

Since its inception, general systems theory has been applied to biology, psychology, mathematicsSince its creation, general systems theory has been applied to biology, psychology, mathematics, computer science, economics, sociology, politics and other exact and social sciences, especially within the framework of interaction analysis.

Defining systems

For this author, the concept of "system" can be defined as a set of elements that interact with each other. set of elements that interact with each other. These are not necessarily human or even animal, but can also be computers, neurons or cells, among many other possibilities.

Systems are defined by their structural characteristics, such as the relationship between components, and functional characteristics; for example, in human systems the elements of the system pursue a common purpose. The key aspect of differentiation between systems is whether they are open or closed to the influence of the environment in which they are situated.

Types of systems

Bertalanffy and other subsequent authors have defined different types of types of system according to structural and functional characteristics.. Let us see which are the most important classifications.

1. System, supra-system and sub-systems

Systems can be divided according to their level of complexity. The different levels of a system interact with each other, so that they are not independent of each other.

If we understand by system a set of elements, we speak of "subsystems" to refer to such components; for example, a family is a system and each individual in it is a distinct subsystem. subsystem. The suprasystem is the environment external to the system, in which it is immersed; in human systems it is identifiable with society.

2. Real, ideal and models

Depending on their entitivity, systems can be classified into real, ideal and models. Real systems are those that exist physically and can be observed, while ideal systems are constructs that can bewhile ideal systems are symbolic constructions derived from thought and language. Models are intended to represent real and ideal characteristics.

3. Natural, artificial and composite

When a system depends exclusively on nature, such as the human body or galaxies, we refer to it as a "natural system". By contrast, artificial systems are those that arise as a consequence of human action; within this type of system we can find vehicles and companies, among many others.

Composite systems combine natural and artificial elements. Any physical environment modified by people, such as towns and cities, is considered a composite system; of course, the proportion of natural and artificial elements varies in each specific case.

4. Closed and open

For Bertalanffy the basic criterion that defines a system is the degree of interaction with the suprasystem and other systems.. Open systems exchange matter, energy and/or information with the surrounding environment, adapting to it and influencing it.

In contrast, closed systems are theoretically isolated from environmental influences; in practice, we speak of closed systems when they are highly structured and feedback is minimal, since no system is completely independent of its suprasystem.

Properties of open systems

Although the properties of closed systems have also been described, those of open systems are more relevant, those of open systems are more relevant to the social sciences because human groups form open systems. because human groups form open systems. This is the case, for example, in families, organizations and nations.

Totality or synergy

According to the principle of synergy, the functioning of a system cannot be understood cannot be understood solely on the basis of the sum of its constituent elements.The interaction between them generates a qualitatively different result.

2. Circular causality or reciprocal co-determination

The action of the different members of a system influences that of the rest, so that the behavior of none of them is independent of the system as a whole. none of them is independent of the system as a whole.. In addition, there is a tendency to repetition (or redundancy) of the patterns of operation.

3. Equifinality

The term "equifinality" refers to the fact that several systems can reach the same final stage although their conditions are initially different. It is therefore inappropriate to look for a single cause to explain this development.

4. Equifinality

Equicausality is opposed to equifinalityEquifinality: systems that start out equal can develop differently depending on the influences they receive and the behavior of their members. Thus, Bertalanffy considered that when analyzing a system it is necessary to focus on the present situation and not so much on the initial conditions.

5. Limitation or stochastic process

Systems tend to develop certain sequences of operation and interaction between members. When this happens, the probability of responses different from those already consolidated decreases; this is known as "limitation".

6. Relationship rule

Relationship rules determine which are the priority interactions between the components of the system and which ones should be avoided. In human groups the relationship rules are usually implicit.

7. Hierarchical ordering

The principle of hierarchical ordering applies both to the members of the system and to specific behaviors. It consists in the fact that some elements and functions have more weight than others, following a vertical logic.

8. Teleology

The development and adaptation of the system, or teleological process, takes place from the opposition of homeostatic (i.e., focused on maintaining the current state and balance) and morphogenetic (focused on growth and change) forces. (i.e., focused on maintaining the current equilibrium and state) and morphogenetic (focused on growth and change).