What is
the purpose of this site?
I began this site as a compilation of various sources that
I've read in print, seeking to form an online network of information on
systems theory, hypertext fiction, and other new insights into the human
condition that I believe are worth sharing with others. As I revise, I
hope to reinforce this purpose by expanding the amount of information and
links I have on the site.
Why is the
information on this site important to me (the reader)?
While I believe each person is meant to derive what they
need from the information on this site, I think awareness itself is the key
issue. Everyone should have knowledge of an alternative way of viewing
the world and our human role within it if we are to stop repeating the mistakes of the
past and explore a different perspective in the future. Each person
might have their own personal cause (environmental abuse, sexism, racism, the
role of technology in society) and with this site I'm trying to provide information
on how these issues are
viewed in the light of a new paradigm in thinking, so that the
reader might take this knowledge with them to address real solutions to these
problems. Look at the Home page for the list of
topics and link to one that interests you.
What is
a 'paradigm' and how does it affect me?
The word 'paradigm' is defined in the American Heritage
College Dictionary as "an example that serves as pattern or
model." (see also the Glossary
for term definitions)
However, in the context of a paradigm shift a
broader interpretation is needed. In his book The Web of Life,
Fritjof Capra draws from the scientific definition a new concept of social
paradigm as "a constellation of, values, perceptions, and practices
shared by a community, which forms a particular vision of reality that is the
basis of the way the community organizes itself" (6). Therefore,
'paradigm' can be used as another word for 'worldview', through which every
member of the culture filters their perceptions— molding how we think, act,
and plan for the future.
What if I
know nothing about systems theory or its application in the physical sciences,
social sciences, or humanities?
I try to cover each of these areas—Physical
Science, Social Science,
and Humanities—as
systems theory has had an impact on them. Click on the area that most
interests you and follow up my brief introduction by following the links to
the sites for more in-depth information. Also, I highly recommend the
books I've included in the Bibliography,
since reading paper is still somewhat easier on the eyes. I've also
included links to topics that don't strictly relate to systems thinking but
provide additional new perspectives on life that might prove valuable to the
new paradigm and its re-examination of the old way of life.
How might I
follow up on the information? Are there off-line sources I can look into?
I provide a preliminary Bibliography
of sources that I've read, as well as others that have been included in the
bibliographies of those books.
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