Source: General System Theory (1968), 3. Some System Concepts in Elementary Mathematical Consideration, p. 55-56
“A system is a set of two or more elements that satisfies the following three conditions. (1) The behavior of each element has an effect on the behavior of the whole. (2) The behavior of the elements and their effects on the whole are interdependent. the way each element behaves and the way it affects the whole depends on how at least one other element behaves. (3) However subgroups of the elements are formed, each has an effect on the behavior of the whole and none has an independent effect on it.”
Source: 1980s, Creating the Corporate Future, 1981, p. 15-16.
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Russell L. Ackoff 70
Scientist 1919–2009Related quotes
Source: Complexity and Postmodernism (1998), p. 4-5; as cited in: Peter Buirski, Amanda Kottler (2007) New Developments in Self Psychology Practice http://books.google.nl/books?id=PinroXBLDkIC&pg=PA9, p. 9
Source: The Functions of the Executive (1938), p. 82; Highlighted section cited among others in: Dennis K. Mumby (2012), Organizational Communication: A Critical Approach. p. 8
As cited in: D.C. (1969) "Systems Theory — A Discredited Philosophy". in: Abacus V. p. 4
1950s, Problems of Life (1952, 1960)

Source: An Introduction to Psychology (1912), p. 44; Cited in: Stephen Kosslyn. Image and Mind. 1980, p. 438

“The tendency to be rational is the consistent and hence predictable element in human behavior.”
Source: Price Theory: An Intermediate Text, 1986, p.4

Cited in: Can Alpaslan, Ian Mitroff (2011) Swans, Swine, and Swindlers: Coping with the Growing Threat of Mega-Crises and Mega-Messes. p. 16.
1970s, The future of operational research is past, 1979
Source: 1970s, "Educational organizations as loosely coupled systems," 1976, p. 7