A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Model theory and observing systems. Notes on the use of models in systems research




AuthorsSverre Moe, Jari Kaivo-oja

PublisherEmerald

Publication year2018

JournalKybernetes

Volume47

Issue9

First page 1690

Last page1703

Number of pages14

ISSN0368-492X

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1108/K-01-2018-0026

Web address https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/K-01-2018-0026

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/K-01-2018-0026


Abstract
Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present three different contributions to a general model theory which the authors think as relevant to systems research based on systems theory, cybernetics and constructivism. This also implies that the three contributions are shown to be of use both in the study of systems that operate by models, as well as in the practice of designing models.

Design/methodology/approach

The text is conceptual and mainly of a descriptive and referring character. Besides the sections on the three contributions to a model theory, the authors have inserted sections that relate them to systems theory. This is also achieved by the help of some simple models.

Findings

The paper also points to models as important instruments in constructing and selecting information to observing systems, and the authors hope that the text can be helpful in developing better knowledge of how models work.

Originality/value

The text is about observing systems that observe by models, and that is probably a somewhat new perspective. It is hoped that the paper can be inspiring to further studies on this matter.



Last updated on 2024-26-11 at 20:28