Liberating Systems Theory

The aim of this chapter is to explore a number of possible interpretations of its title, ‘Liberating Systems Theory’ (‘LST’). Each of these selected meanings represents a theme, or a strand of study, that will be developed in one of the following chapters. Particular points of focus are: (a) Strand 1, the liberation of systems theory from a natural tendency toward self-imposed insularity (L’sT’); (b) Strand 2, the liberation of systems concepts from objectivist or subjectivist delusions (L’sT’); (c) Strand 3, the liberation of systems theory from internalized localized subjugations of discourse, (L’sT’); (d) Strand 4, systems theory for emancipation in response to domination and subjugation in work and social situations (‘LS’T); but in broader terms the book as a whole is concerned with (e) The liberation of systems theory in the sense of more cognitive illumination for the reader or prospective researcher or practitioner (‘LS’).