2. Critical thinking and systems theory

In this chapter

Systems theory

System interactions: video streaming as an example

What exactly is a system?

Emergent systems

Designed systems

Digital twins

Systems thinking and critical thinking

Systems thinking: understanding the big picture

An example of systems thinking

Ask questions and think critically

Good intentions, less good results

Efficiency improvements = additional consumption?

Digital systems vs. ecosystems: Differences, similarities and synergies

E-commerce as an example of a system model

Feedback loops: The system is fed with its own output

Systems thinking helps you get all the way around

Network theory can complement systems theory

Systems were traditionally compared to machines

Today, systems can also be viewed as complex networks

Thinking in networks can shed light on cascade effects

Chapter summary: Systems thinking and network understanding are key