In order to comprehend the behavior of the human systems1 to which they belong people must understand systems, particularly living systems. Very few people, however, learn to think systemically. This inability to think systemically leaves a large gap between our current mental models and deep human understanding of the world in which we live.
New understanding begins with unanswered questions. Acknowledging unanswered questions opens the door to discovering what you didn’t know you didn’t know. Then asking those questions of others creates the opportunity for deep learning. Persistently asking the question “Why?” will introduce you to the incredible complexity of this world.
By sharing my insights about living systems — economic, business, education, etc. — I hope to stimulate your thinking. More importantly I want to stimulates your (and my) questions of “Why?” When you move from accepting someone else’s interpretation of “How?” to getting your own answers to “Why?,” you move from simple knowledge to deeper understanding. When you begin to think about the breadth and depth of the connections in your life, you will begin to make decisions that have a more positive influence on yourself and others.
Why do human systems perform the way they do?
1 (The term human system refers to any system in which humans act as an essential element. Human systems include families, neighborhoods, organizations, and economic systems.)
The Berger Memoranda 