The Graph shows a type of heuristic and thinking process that can be
used by Systems Thinkers to solve
problems. It is particularly suited when the systems investigated are
intangible entities, such as a health system, political parties or ecosystems.
The observation leads to the construction of a mental model of the perceived
phenomenon and serves primarily to gain
understanding and to guide possible interventions. Although the mental model can be represented
as a causal-loop-diagram, it does not suggest a truthful representation of the
observed phenomenon that led to its creation. In fact, when it comes to
intangible entities it is impossible to know if the model created by the
observer(s) represents an actual entity out there and to what degree it might
be truthful. However, having a precise and truthful representation of the
phenomenon or situation modelled is not necessary for the model to be useful
and to guide practical interventions.
This is confirmed by the ideas of the German philosopher Hans Vaihinger.
Vaihinger speaks of ‘useful fictions’ and shows how useful hey can be useful to
navigate in the world- and, of course,
deal with complex situations. Here is a link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Philosophy_of_%27As_if%27
There is a thin broken line in the graph from ‘GAP to the investigated phenomenon. This link symbolizes the notion that only a
useful viability can be attributed to the model. This viability can be
established (or not) via small
intervention applied iteratively to the real-world situation. The model may
well turn out to be a very useful fiction.
