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Pluralistic Causal Mapping: A Postmodern Systems Thinking Approach Regarding Identification of a Causal Map of Social Complex Systems

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  • Mojtaba Ashja

    (Shahid Beheshti University, G.C.)

  • Ali Rezaeian

    (Shahid Beheshti University, G.C.)

Abstract

While complexity increases, current methodologies show some deficiencies. The main defect is when everything in a system is related and all relationships seem the same. It makes finding the difference quite hard. This article attempts to fill the identified gap by offering a methodology. It is named Pluralistic Causal Mapping (PCM). PCM was developed on Postmodern Systems Thinking. It is a mixed methodology that pursues individual emancipation through pluralism. PCM is applied to identify causality structure of large-scale information systems in order to test it in practice. Using the developed methodology, differences could be seen even when everything appeared the same. As a time-based methodology, PCM assigns power to statements based on three inquiry iterations. It distinguishes between the strength of relationships and delays. In addition, it minimizes the effects of practitioners' perception as well as the negative effects of power and group on the results.

Suggested Citation

  • Mojtaba Ashja & Ali Rezaeian, 2024. "Pluralistic Causal Mapping: A Postmodern Systems Thinking Approach Regarding Identification of a Causal Map of Social Complex Systems," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(6), pages 1101-1121, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:syspar:v:37:y:2024:i:6:d:10.1007_s11213-024-09688-w
    DOI: 10.1007/s11213-024-09688-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

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