What is Systems Theory?

 

Systems theory is a way of thinking about the world. It sees the universe, organic and inorganic, as an inter-related web of relationships. One can not speak of any element, entity or person without reference to the context, environment and process within which they exist. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Systems are universal. They consist of relationships and patterns of behavior. Systems thinking looks to the relationships between the parts, how they are organized, the process of interaction between them and how they reproduce. It is contextual, historical and environmental.This holds true for galaxies, solar systems, planets, the Earth's biosphere, human beings, our bodies and minds, and the societies within which we live. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Systems thinking tells us how the natural world works. It is ecological and holistic. When we think systemically, we can see how seemingly isolated parts are intimately connected and consist of a set of inter-related patterns. Nature works that way. Nothing and no one exists alone. Unfortunately, the modern world sees things dualistically. The way in which our society is organized reflects this approach. Life is broken into separate compartments and specialties, including our bodies. It's time to re-imagine a world that is integrated and whole. 

 

Efforts are being made to overcome the dualistic tendencies of modern western thinking.

Here is a brief introductory video explaining some essential elements of systems thinking.  

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Revolutionary Thinking 

 

Systems thinking is revolutionizing our relationship to nature, science and religion, God and consciousness. It changes how we see culture, health and disease, organizational structures, work, politics, and families.

 

Functional and Holistic Medicine

 

Systems Thinking has fostered significant advances in health attainment. Functional Medicine has used Systems Biology to establish a holistic approach to medical practice. Functional Medicine looks at the root causes of disease and not only the symptoms of disease. It looks at the roots and not only the leaves. Greater numbers of physicians are being trained to look at the physical, psychological and social aspects of wellness and disease. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Functional and holistic practitioners view the individual as existing within a bio/psycho/social continuum or matrix. Treatment plans take into account the multiple causes of illness and utilizes them in regaining and nurturing health. For each individual that may mean a different approach. One size does not fit all. Solutions may involve emotional support and stress management as well as biological and pharmaceutical interventions. 

 

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