We can understand the performance of systems at three basic levels. The three levels at which we can understand the performance of systems consist of Events, Patterns of Behavior, and Systemic Structure. Working from the bottom up, each level provides more knowledge about what influences the system's behavior. This diagram shows the direction of influence—most … Continue reading Levels of Understanding Systems
Month: May 2026
Graphic Comparisons
Statistical charts provide one of the most effective tools for conveying information (and misinformation) When a commentator presents a graph as "proof" of their argument, view it with great care. Graphics can help describe patterns of behavior and provide evident of structural connections, but they never prove anything. Scientists must continually subject theoretical "proofs" to … Continue reading Graphic Comparisons