Holistic Systems Thinking:Think. Think of. Think through. Think up. Think better. Think fit. Think twice.
Is there a problem with the word ‘thinking’ in the phrase: ‘holistic systems thinking’?
Some colleagues object because it seems to reduce systems analysis to precise rational schemes, and ignore the intuitive and emotional aspects of holistic awareness.
After consideration, I’d like to propose that, instead of replacing the word ‘think’, this interesting linguistic challenge might be solved by expanding the use of the word "think" which means “to have a conscious mind.”
Phrases with this word greatly expand this meaning. Consider these additions for holistic systems: Think. Think of. Think through. Think up. Think better. Think fit. Think twice.
Another concern regarding ‘holistic systems thinking’ relates to scale.
Systems analysis readily dispenses with one extreme of scale – ‘atomism’.
But the scale that often replaces atomism swings to the opposite extreme. It lands with an awkward thump on ‘globalism’.
Globalism means placing the interests of the entire world above those of the components of that world. Such separatism is not only antithetical to the philosophy of holism, it contradicts the scientific evidence provided by ecologists and the policies advocated by environmentalists.
The flow of energies among nested hierarchies is multi-dimensional. Furthermore, globalism is so vast, so remote, and so abstract, it stultifies personal environmental responsibility and community initiatives.
I believe that a ‘holistic’ approach can only become a useful strategy if it involves focusing on components. This does not negate keeping in mind that all these components participate in integrated systems. They are both recipients and instigators of changes that extend without dimension. The ‘component’ scale seems essential if individuals are to protect the soils, water, air, and biological life in their own ecosystems.
Conclusion: ‘Local systems action ’ is the corollary of ‘holistic systems thinking’.