Systems and the problematique: The case of a carbon tax

Abstract The ‘problematique’ is an intermeshed set of global problems. Since The Limits to Growth was published, it has become generally accepted that there are indeed some serious planetary problems. Although one might have expected systems thinkers to contribute to solving such problems, there has recently been some discouragement to do so from a leading systems exponent. It is argued that far from discouraging systems thinkers, it should be recognized that their contribution is vital. An example is offered of countering the carbon dioxide problem through fuel tax—and ultimately resource taxes—accompanied by a general basic income to offset the regressive nature of fuel tax. The language of systems is shown to be apposite in describing and analysing such cases.