Subject: Definitions of feedback loops

Posted by Tracy Benson on 2/2/2006
In Reply To:Definitions of feedback loops Posted by George Richardson on 2/2/2006

Message:

Thanks for sharing multiple definitions of feedback, George--
I also like the simplicity of what you refer to throughout your book, Feedback Thought in Social Science and Systems Theory. You refer to "loops of mutual causality" (p 78 and many other pages throughout).

A 1st grader's definition, from Borton Primary Magnet School--a K-2 Tucson school that focuses on inquiry and systems thinking is, "those loopy things that explain the important parts of a story." The same first grade students refer to linear causal relationships that have no feedback as "causal hooks." They understand that hooks turn into loops only when there is feedback.

Richardson, G.P. (1991). Feedback Thought in Social Science and Systems Theory. Philadephia: University of Pennsylvania Press.

Follow Ups:

Definitions of feedback loops - George Richardson 2/3/2006