Elements and Relations: Aspects of a Scientific Metaphysics

The book "Elements and Relations: An Introduction to Systems Theory" argues that systems theory is an attempt to construct an "exact and scientific metaphysics" that can be expressed mathematically and offers ideas and methods relevant to all of the sciences and professional fields. It is structured in three parts: an essay, notes, and commentary, and is intended for researchers and students in the systems (complexity) field as well as related fields.

Format: Hardback
Length: 702 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into the fundamental concept that systems theory aims to establish an "exact and scientific metaphysics," a comprehensive framework of general ideas fundamental to science that can be quantified through mathematical expressions. Collectively, these ideas would form a nonreductionist "theory of everything," distinct from the pursuit in physics. Embracing a transdisciplinary nature, systems theory provides insights and methodologies applicable to all scientific disciplines and professional fields, including systems engineering, public policy, business, and social work. To illustrate the broad scope and significance of the systems project, the book is organized into three parts: Essay, Notes, and Commentary. The Essay section offers a concise summary of systems ideas, shedding light on the challenges encountered by various types of systems. The Commentary section delves into the principles of systems thinking, its value, and its relationship to mainstream scientific knowledge. It demonstrates how systems ideas redefine our understanding of science and how they shape our perspectives on religion, politics, and history. Furthermore, the Notes section encompasses all the mathematical content of the book, as well as scientific, philosophical, and poetic material accessible to readers without a strong mathematical background.

Elements and Relations is primarily designed for researchers and students engaged in the fields of systems (complexity), social science modeling, systems biology and ecology, and cognitive science. It serves as a textbook for systems courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as for STEM education. Due to its non-mathematical nature, the book is also suitable for general readers interested in the natural and social sciences, as well as the humanities, particularly philosophy.

Weight: 1238g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030994020
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023