American and Soviet Discussions of the Foundations of Cybernetics and General Systems Theory

Since 1981 scientists in the United Slates and the Soviet Union have been meeting to discuss the foundations of cybernetics and general systems theory in their two countries. Several different methods of communication have been tried and a wide range of topics have been covered. Most of the conversations have focused on issues involving epistemology, methodology, and management. The discussions have turned up several differences in approach. A few of the differences suggest new avenues for research. Two ideas may help to shed light on theoretical approaches in the two countries and on differences between the two societies. The two ideas are “cognitive efficiency” and “collective intelligence”.