The Hard Core of the System Dynamics Research Programme

Introduction In this research, we attempt to identify the set of basic assumptions underlying the system dynamics research programme. This work is inspired by Lakatos’ theory of science (Lakatos, Musgrave 1970). Lakatos calls the set of basic assumptions of any programme, the hard core of the programme. The hard core of a programme is the defining characteristic of a programme. According to Lakatos, “the hard core of a programme is rendered unfalsifiable by the methodological decision of it protagonists” (Chalmers, 1982, p. 81). One is unwilling to give up this hard core, even if one meets resistance in the form of empirical counter -evidence, anomalies and scientific arguments. The research to explain the anomalies is sought in the other assumptions, auxiliary hypotheses, initial conditions or what Lakatos calls the protecting belt of the programme.

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