1062. Critical Systems Thinking: Aspiring to Russ Ackoff's Vision of OR
Contributed abstract in session TD-50: Systems Thinking 2, stream Systems Thinking.
Tuesday, 14:30-16:00Room: Parkinson B11
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Mike Jackson
|
| Centre for Systems Studies, University of Hull |
Abstract
In 1979 Russ Ackoff turned his back on OR, declaring that 'the future of operational research is past'. He condemned its commitment to optimization and objectivity in a world of rapid change and multiple values. Instead, he embraced systems thinking which he hoped to build into a holistic, interdisciplinary, experimental science capable of addressing the most important strategic and societal problems. His 'interactive planning' methodology, seeking to explore purposes and encourage continuous learning and adaptation, was an expression of this vision.
Since 1979, OR has responded to Ackoff's critique. In particular, 'Soft OR' has been developed as a complementary approach to the traditional 'hard' approach. Soft OR, incorporating a variety of problem structuring methods, adds an ability to cope with ill-structured issues to OR's traditional competence with structured problems. OR, however, still falls far short of realizing Ackoff's vision.
It is 'critical systems thinking' that aspires to completely fulfil Ackoff's ambition. Critical systems thinking adopts a pragmatist approach to multidimensional complexity, is multiperspectival, multimethodological, flexible, and seeks to ensure multifaceted systemic improvement.
This presentation demonstrates how critical systems thinking draws upon Ackoff's ideas and develops them. It reflects on what is being done to translate those ideas into practice to tackle significant strategic and societal problems.
Keywords
- OR History
- Critical Decision Making
- Complex Societal Problems
Status: accepted
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