Beyond COVID: Reframing the Global Problematique with STiP (Systems Thinking in Practice)

Area of Science:

• Systems Science
• Social Sciences
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Humanity is experiencing unprecedented global disruptions since 2019, including pandemics, economic instability, and geopolitical conflicts.
• These challenges are occurring within the context of the human-induced Anthropocene, highlighting the inadequacy of current human responses.
• The concept of 'problematique,' referring to interrelated global problems, was identified decades ago, yet effective solutions for human flourishing remain elusive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for innovation in human ways of knowing and doing to address complex global challenges.
• To identify key constraints hindering progress in creating a viable space for humanity within the Anthropocene-Biosphere.
• To call for reflexive action among knowledge and systems scientists.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of historical and contemporary global challenges.
• Critique of existing social structures, including explanations, institutions, practices (praxis), and governance systems.
• Argumentation for reflexive evaluation of traditions-of-understanding.

Main Results:

• Current social world is constrained by outdated explanations, institutions, inadequate praxis, and insufficient governance systems.
• Existing frameworks for understanding and acting are increasingly unfit for current human circumstances.
• A need for innovation in both "ways of knowing" and "ways of doing" is identified.

Conclusions:

• Urgent innovation in knowledge systems and practices is necessary for human flourishing.
• Systems and knowledge scientists must critically examine their foundational assumptions and traditions.
• Co-evolution with the Anthropocene-Biosphere requires adaptive and purposeful action grounded in updated understanding.