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Understanding and improving the usefulness of conceptual systems: An Integrative Propositional Analysis‐based perspective on levels of structure and emergence

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  • Steven E. Wallis

Abstract

Terms like ‘levels’ and ‘nested’ are used to describe relationships between components of conceptual systems (theories, models etc.). However, they have not been fully explored. This paper investigates levels to better understand how theories are structured and so how we may develop more useful theories and models to better support more effective practice. We find a horizontal dimension (represented by causal connections between concepts at one ontological level) and a vertical dimension (represented by connections of emergence between concepts of differing ontological levels). This view of emergence offers a new way to structurally distinguish between conceptual components of a theory, thus supporting a new approach to building theories that better reflects our systemic world. A third, perspectival, approach may be applied to aid in the understanding of both dimensions. A typology is proposed as are conventions for diagramming theories and new criteria for improving the structure of theories.

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  • Steven E. Wallis, 2021. "Understanding and improving the usefulness of conceptual systems: An Integrative Propositional Analysis‐based perspective on levels of structure and emergence," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 38(4), pages 426-447, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:srbeha:v:38:y:2021:i:4:p:426-447
    DOI: 10.1002/sres.2680
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Seyed Ashkan Zarghami, 2023. "Deviation from a state of perfect uniformity: An indicator of structural complexity in projects," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 40(3), pages 488-500, May.

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