Rebooting the systems approach by applying the thinking of Bogdanov and the pragmatists

Abstract The systems approach continues to lack agreed philosophical foundations. As a result, it has become fragmented and offers numerous different theories and methodologies. This proliferation of perspectives makes it difficult for those in other disciplines to interact with and learn from systems thinkers and vice versa. It also puts practitioners off. They are confused and find it hard to believe that the systems approach has the special capacity it claims for helping them succeed in the volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous world in which they have to act. This paper argues that the systems approach needs rebooting on the basis of the work of Bogdanov and the pragmatists if it is to realize its full theoretical and practical potential. This task is less daunting than may at first appear. The systems approach has, often without realizing it, taken forward the tradition of thought initiated by Bogdanov and the pragmatists. This is true whether in the guise of general systems theory, cybernetics, complexity theory or systems methodologies. There is a bright future for the systems approach if it self‐consciously embraces that philosophical tradition, further develops it and enhances its practice. A philosophically empowered systems approach, united in its aspirations, can play a leading role in improving life on our planet.