Synergy, Recursion, and Systems: Definitions & Concepts
Chapter 2: Synergy and Recursion
2.1 Synergy
When the sum of the parts is different from the whole, and an object meets this principle, we have synergy.
Some objects inherently possess synergy, while others do not. Wholes generally devoid of synergy can be referred to as conglomerates.
Cluster: This is assumed to be without synergy, i.e., the sum of its parts equals the whole. Therefore, we conclude that the conglomerate does not exist in reality, but it may exist for other purposes such as statistics, as a set of objects from which we abstract certain characteristics, i.e., eliminate those factors outside the study and not affecting the behavior of each of the parts.
By definition, a company must be able to produce more or better than all the resources it encompasses. It must be a real whole: greater than the sum of its parts, or at least different from it, with a yield greater than the sum of all consumption.
2.2 Resources
Recursion can be understood as a synergetic object or system composed of parts with characteristics that are themselves synergistic objects (systems).
We then speak of systems and subsystems.
Chapter 3: What is a System?
Definitions
System
A coordinated set of parts interacting to achieve a set of objectives.
Accepted definitions by Bertalanffy and Boulding:
- Grouping of components that perform actions in search of goals.
- Group of parts which form an organic whole with a common purpose.
- Search for the harmonization of the parties.
Other definitions of systems:
- A set of coordinated parts that interact to achieve a set of common objectives.
- A system is one that brings together different parties that contribute in different ways to achieve a goal.
- A system is a set of parts and objects that interact and form a whole or which are under the influence of forces of any definite relationship.
- A system is a set of objects and their relationships through their taxes.
Synergy Concept of Gestalt
Hall defines a system as a set of objects and their relationships, and relationships between objects and their attributes.
Also defines:
Purpose: One element that may discriminate against the rest (part – part of the system).
Attribute: The properties through which the object appears.
Gestalt Synergy: “The sum of the parts of a system is more than the sum of each individual.”
That is, everything is different from the sum of parts; the individual study of the parties does not explain everything.
Another definition is the normal perceptual experience in which all is seen or understood as something more than the sum of its parts.
Burt aims to integrate science (homomorphism).
Look for the application (practice systems), operations research, scientific management, systems analysis, systems engineering.
Subsystem
It is part of a system that must comply with the principle of recursion.
Principle of recursion: A subsystem is considered from the system when the system can be explained that contains it.
System Boundary
When we establish the influence of system components and subsystems over their borders, as far as covered by the system to see where it influences the other, the following relate to their environment.
Open System
This system can interact with the surrounding medium (environment).
That is, a living system or organ exchanges energy with the surrounding environment.
Closed System
A system that cannot exchange energy with its environment.
The above definitions are raised by Boulding and Bertalanffy.
Forrester: A closed system is defined as one whose output current, i.e., its product, modifies its input current, i.e., its inputs. An open system is one whose output current does not change the input current.