Translation

I've been thinking a lot about the gaps inherent in any discipline that requires a new vocabulary to understand it such as we have been learning in systems thinking. CLDs, BoTs, Stock & Flows, these don't have a whole lot of meaning to anyone who isn't already at least somewhat familiar with the models used in our systems class. When we discussed this at the end of class, the advice given was to experiment, that I should find a language that works best for me. As I think about this challenge, about how to translate systems thinking into a language that anyone can understand, the obvious choice is the language of nature and natural systems. For example, A systems diagram that describes the economy, could be equated to a similar system in nature like the hydrologic cycle. Taxation and social programs could be called the evaporation and rain of the economy. Putting it into this context is yet another way of making the system visible and does it in a way that many people will be able to relate to easily. I think this would also be a useful tool for system thinkers in that they might be able to identify holes in the system based on their knowledge of natural systems. it has been said many times, that nature has been around for much longer than we have and we would be silly not to take advantage of the design intelligence of natural systems. A deeper understanding of the world around us will make it easier for us as systems thinkers to spot leverage points and connections.