Showing papers in "Kybernetes in 1993"

World in Torment: A Time Whose Idea Must Come

Abstract: Presents the full text of the Presidential Address by Stafford Beer to the Triennial Congress of the World Organization of Systems and Cybernetics, New Delhi, India, January 1993. Introduces the components of contemporary change and discusses the diagnostic approach of management cybernetics. Outlines a summary theory of autonomy and considers autonomy at the global level. Offers an account of the cybernetics of chronic societary triage, developing an analysis of triage through category A, B and C partition. Produces a summary theory of team syntegrity and discusses the power and the use of the team syntegrity model. Finally, outlines an action plan for World Syntegration.

The Cybernetic Ontology of Action

Abstract: Popularly, metaphysics is considered to be the antonym for physics. Argues that this attitude is a hangover from outdated forms of empiricism and positivism. In the light of cybernetic epistemology, scientific theories are linguistic structures which help to produce predictions of events. These structures are not directly deduced from experience, but guessed and then justified a posteriori. Metaphysics provides a basis for such structures. Proposes the principle that the ultimate reality we find in the physical world is that of action. Modifies Schopenhauer's formula as the world is action and representation, with action taking ontological precedence, and not to the space‐time picture of the world. For a picture is only a picture, a representation which changes from one subject to another, from one theory to another; while action is an irrefutable reality. Thus the concept of action in abstracto is taken and on this basis an attempt is made to interpret the fundamental concepts of knowledge: what are objects, what is objective description of the world, what is space and time?

Linking Network Organization to Holographic Design: Future Industrial Organization

Abstract: Discusses possible future approaches to questions of industrial organization. Suggests a meta‐model of an organization producing goods which combines the information requirements of management and control functions and critical requirements of a holographic (heterarchic) organization. Suggests a conceptual framework that provides a method of linking information and communication. Makes a distinction between information‐network organization and communication‐network organization. Discusses various architectural designs in terms of how their properties can serve the governing mechanism of the organization. Argues that synergetic effects are, ideally, optimized through fully integrated communication networks. Also discusses advantages gained through the use of communication‐related technology with the aim of shortening idea‐to‐product time‐cycles. The questions of architectural design and the technological options cannot be treated separately or extracted from the organizational context. Successful implementation of such technology is dependent on simultaneous development of high‐level “communicative competence”, i.e. the ability to create and convey metaphoric knowledge in ways that enhance the holographic qualities of the organization.

Future Vision: Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on Organizational Success

Abstract: In management cybernetics, artificial intelligence is altering the ways in which computers are usable as problem‐solving tools. The talent of humans at thus smartly creating and operating tools is indeed a feature of human‐based brainpower. Actualization of “man‐machine” interaction is of paramount importance since the innovative application of all knowledge‐based resources is increasingly impacting on global economic power and, consequently, success of every organization. At the same time, questions have arisen about the extent to which computers can intelligently complete tasks. Presents a methodology whereby change as necessary to extend synergistically the capabilities of both humans and their machines can be implemented successfully.

Contemporary Systems and Cybernetics

Abstract: Gives reports and surveys of selected current research and developments in systems and cybernetics, including: Knowledge‐based systems, Collaborative robots, Business cybernetics and systems, Information technology, Interdisciplinary research, Innovative systems, Biocybernetics.

Signposts to Critical Systems Thinking and Practice: An Invited Article

Abstract: Outlines the emergence of critical systems thinking and practice and the reasons why such a development in the systems approach was necessary. Considers the limitations of traditional systems thinking and the strengths and weaknesses of three alternatives to the traditional systems approach — soft systems thinking, organizational cybernetics and emancipatory systems thinking. Reflection on the relationship between these different strands of the systems approach gave impetus to the birth of critical systems thinking. Details the nature of critical systems thinking, as resting on five commitments, and describes a new methodology (“total systems intervention”) to operationalize this approach.

Fuzzy Symmetric Functions with Don't‐care Conditions and Applications

Abstract: Defines and investigates fuzzy symmetric functions with don't‐care conditions and most‐unsymmetric functions. Represents and illustrates by examples algorithms for finding the grade of membership function and the number of most unsymmetric functions. Also presents applications to function representation, data reduction and error correction. The results may have useful applications to fuzzy logics, finding most‐unsymmetric images, fuzzy neural networks and related areas.

Self‐organization and Intermittency in Social Systems: Towards a Science of Complexity

Abstract: The concept of self‐organization proposed by Von Foerster and developed recently by I. Prigogine and the “synergetics” of H. Haken state a framework that promises to be fruitful in the construction of theories synthesizing the microscale and the macroscale points of view in complex systems. This concept may be especially interesting in human sciences, like sociology, where the duality microsociology/ macrosociology remains. Tries to identify explicitly the main features defining the self‐organization of microelements that produce a macroscopic system, and applies the concept to phenomena of social evolution, suggesting a formulation of the micro/macro relationship in social sciences in terms of the probabilistic field theory.

Boolean Representation of Fuzzy Sets

Abstract: Characterizes the well known set‐representation of fuzzy sets (Negotia‐Ralescu), as a P(X)‐valued Boolean, Dedekind cut, and at the same time generalizes it to general Boolean algebras. Uses the theory of Boolean powers and Boolean‐valued Dedekind cuts.

Stafford Beer — Personal Reminiscences and Reflections

Abstract: Presents a personalized biographical note of reminiscences and reflections about Stafford Beer. Contains detailed references to his early days in cybernetics, his work at Sigma, a consultancy firm in science and general management, and the important phase in Beer's life in Chile. Looks at its aftermath and comments on his activities in recent years. Discusses Beer's contributions to science together with ethics and his sense of mission. Includes notes on the subject's approach to mysticism, poetry, and his artistic creativity. Lists some criticisms and a brief concluding summary.

Expert Systems and Fuzzy Systems: A New Approach via Possibility‐Probability Conversion

Abstract: In the framework of his theory of relative information, derives formulae to convert probability into possibility and conversely, and shows how they can be utilized to reconsider many questions related to fuzzy sets and approximate reasoning on a meaningful information theoretic standpoint. The key of this approach is that the membership of a fuzzy set is now thought of as equivalent to the pair (probability, fuzziness coefficient). Therefore a sound new concept of informational membership entropy, which is fully consistent with Shannon theory, is evolved. In this new paradigm, the fuzzy object is simultaneously defined by the set itself and its complement. Thus obtains a new modelling for the union and the intersection of fuzzy sets, and new approaches to quantitatively modelling “If A then B”.

Implementation and Comparison of Three Neural Network Learning Algorithms

Abstract: The performance of a welding process determines not only the cost, but also the quality of the product. How to control the welding process in order to ensure good welding performance with less cost and higher Productivity has become critical. The objective of this study is twofold: (1) developing artificial neural networks to predict welding performance using different learning algorithms: back propagation, simulated annealing and tabu search; (2) comparing and discussing the performance of neural networks trained using those algorithms. Statistical analysis shows that back propagation is able to make more accurate prediction than the other algorithms for this particular application. However, all three algorithms demonstrate impressive flexibility and robustness.

Generation of Diagnostic Rules via Inductive Machine Learning

Abstract: A learning algorithm called CLILP2 (Cover Learning Using Integer Linear Programming) is applied to medical data to generate rules to recognize patients with coronary artery disease. The algorithm partitions a data set into subsets using features which best describe and distinguish a particular subset from all other subsets. These features are used to form the rules which can be used as the knowledge base of a diagnostic expert system. Results from the application of the algorithm to coronary artery stenosis data are compared with the results obtained from the existing expert system.

Observable Structure Functions

Abstract: Considers the concept of structure function in reliability theory. Complete lattices are considered in order to model the space of performance levels for both system and components, leading to a general concept of structure function. Measurability with respect to the associate order topology is also assumed. On one hand, some basic concepts in classical reliability theory are translated into this context, where a particular measure has been defined over the space of components. On the other hand, the idea of duality is analysed in this context.

The Unfolded Shape of the Brain

Abstract: Examines the problems of determining the unfolded shape of the entire human cerebral cortex Discusses the isometric and isogonal cortex and measurement methods Maintains that better methods of measurement and calculation should yield a more accurate model but one which is unlikely to be significantly different from that presented in the article

The Case Study: Its Systemic Metatheory and the Social/Behavioural Sciences

Abstract: Briefly maps the intellectual terrain of a generic system of enquiry — the metatheory of case study research. Draws a distinction between a generic research design and a methodology: the former is an overarching research plan, the latter refers to data‐generating processes and cognitive procedures for discerning datal patterns. Methodology is an integral part of every generic research design. General systems theory informs the metatheory on the case under study. Describes the armamentarium of case study research: topical loci in case study research; researcher's a priori notions and values; ideology/epistemology interrelations; data‐generating instruments and procedures; cognitive datalpattern processes and characteristics of case study discourse. Delineates the influences of the pragmatic unity of fact and value, the reciprocal relations between knowledge and practice, and the constraints of the researcher's intellectual vision and values. Presents the character and significance of the Heisenberg indeterminacy principle for the epistemology of the social/behavioural sciences.

Modelling Response to Catastrophe Using Beer's VSM: Viability for Effective Action

Abstract: Presents the Viable System Model, developed by Stafford Beer, as a potentially valuable resource for strengthening the capabilities of temporary, situation‐based organizations such as those assembled to respond to natural, technical and man‐made disasters. Describes a Viable System Model of a response to a small‐scale accident and extends its lessons to larger more complex situations. Suggests that the management of the high levels of variety in multifaceted disaster response efforts could be improved by using the model as a common frame of reference.

New Aspects of Ecotoxicology through a Systemic Approach

Abstract: Shows how the essential ecotoxicological question of constructing a quantitative model of the interactions between environmental stress factors, and their synergistic effects resulting in a biosystem's perturbation, even in its pathology, has been formulated from a systemic viewpoint. The proposed model has been developed on the basis of the multicorrelational structure of heavy‐metal concentrations in the blood of pregnant women with a high environmental exposure to those metals. The proposed model uses an original notion of the interaction which allows one to find and explain the observed connection between the phenomenon of spontaneous abortion as an environmentally induced foetal pathology and some heavy metals, particularly cadmium and lead.

Embodiments of Beer's Educational Model

Abstract: Begins by summarizing Stafford Beer's minimal model proposed in his report on the organization of Manchester Business School in 1970, and the conclusions made by Sir Douglas Hague, when Beer's model was used as a framework to examine current business school practices and a vision for the twenty‐first century. To facilitate learning in a “reality” which closely resembled situations in A‐space, a business simulator course was designed and its cybernetics is explained to show how Beer's ideas were actually used to teach Beer's ideas. Also delineates the experiences of the students' practical use of Beer's VSM. Continuing the theme to interplay teaching, research and consultancy, describes the concept, model and the implementation of Janus — The Centre for Systems Thinking and Organizational Transformation; a centre for those who wish to study, develop, apply and promote Stafford Beer's ideas and works.

Real and Artificial Neural Nets

Abstract: Reviews some of the good reasons for looking to real neural nets for guidance on ways of implementing effective parallel computation. Discusses existing artificial neural nets with particular attention to the extent to which they model real neural activity. Indicates some serious mismatches, but shows that there are also important correspondences. The successful applications are to image processing, pattern classification and automatic optimization, in various guises. Reviews important issues raised by extension to the symbolic problem solving of “intellectual” thought, the prime concern of classical AI. These illustrate the importance of recursion, and of a degree of continuity associated with any evolutionary process.

Some Results Related to the Concepts of Products

Abstract: Presents results concerning products, Cartesian products and direct products of general systems. The results are divided into three categories, according to input‐output property, connectedness, and embeddability. Discusses the application of products to building larger, and more useful, structures, giving examples and outstanding problems.

Informational Observation Theory: An Extension to Two Discrete Sets of Events

Abstract: Gives an analysis of the consequences of the limitations inherent in observation processes PA and PB on the joint, marginal and conditional entropies of two discrete sets of events A and B, observed by means of PA and PB. Up to now, unlike the continuous case studied in a previous article, the Shannon theory seemed to apply without any problems. Demonstrates that this is not true in some particular situations. Some properties of dissymmetry, absent from the Shannonian model, appear.

System Theory and Deepened Set Theory

Abstract: Incorporates a unified basis for both set and system theory, and also makes a clear case for topology as the science which both underlies and includes logic Indeed, careful topological analysis reveals the problems besetting the so‐called “law of the excluded middle” Basically, the middle is there, whether we try to ostracize it or not Interestingly, makes clear that Buddhist logicians almost two millennia before L Brouwer's critique of formalistic proofs, had discovered the non‐exclusion of the middle term Also discusses the related and neglected matter of the tangency between two sets, as distinct from their intersection or disjunction in a Boolean context These renovated foundations make for new cybernetics and system theory as well

Computer Algorithms: A Simultaneous Search for Several Solutions to Non‐linear Systems

Abstract: Presents a new method for systems solving with a solution proposal and flowcharts to enable programs to be developed. Considers the computational complexity and the details of the algorithms proposed together with the examples of systems solutions. Discusses statistical tests and a final validation of the proposed method.

Communications: The Distress Signal as a System Function

Abstract: An important segment of the life‐saving functions of higher organisms consists of a distress‐signalling complex. Presents a hypothesis concerning the generic existence of these. Discusses the qualities, activation and function of the signals in connection with different senses and channels against the background of systems theory. Examines a complex of formalized distress signals among animals and analyses various aspects of their reception. Also examines a corresponding man‐made complex with electronic channel augmentation from a national as well as an international point of view. Finally, notes the development of electronic distress signals, incomprehensible to humans.

About Some Unusual Mental States

Abstract: Introduced by John H. Clark, the Map of Mental States is a geometrical model of a human mental life. In spite of its simplicity, it takes into account the most essential variables characterizing the mind. Deals with three important types of mental life which can be represented on the Map: mystical states, mental illnesses and drug states. The exact numerical positions of the states have been established on the Map, for the most known mystical path, for some mental illnesses and for two typical drugs. Rectilinear and curvilinear distances between corresponding states have been calculated and perspectives of such a study have been shown.

Communications: A Predictive Theory of Dolphin Communication

Abstract: Presents a new theory about the communication structure used by ocean‐living odontocetes. Draws conclusions from eight biological singularities in dolphin communication found in empirical research but not yet put into a systematic context. They suggest the interpretation that in dolphin communication information is encoded by way of SOund PAttern VAriation. Discusses the formal prerequisites of this theory; negative and positive predictions are made. Interprets both the results of Bastian's communication experiment and the scouting behaviour observed in the wild as evidence that dolphins possess a highly developed SOund PAttern VAriation LAnguage (SOPAVALA). Complements this by examining considerations concerning the evolutionary process which may have made this development possible. Discusses characteristic features of the proposed new language structure and suggests how to decode successfully and understand a dolphin's SOPAVALA, should it exist.

Identification of Multiple‐input Transfer‐function Noise Models: A Regression Approach — Part I: Theory

Abstract: Evaluates an identification strategy, based on ridge regression, for mutliple‐input models. The corresponding computer algorithm was implemented on a VAX–8800 computer at the Computing Centre at A˚bo Akademi. The evaluation of the ridge‐regression method was carried out by simulations of different transfer‐function noise model structures. The models are essentially the same as those of Edlund, but a far greater number of replications, 1,000, is used in each of the 21 cases tested. Furthermore, uses actually identified and estimated ARIMA models of the residuals in the identification procedure of impulse response weights, unlike Edlund, who used only theoretical noise models in filtering the input and output series. A short discussion of the underlying theory is presented in Part I. The procedures and results of the empirical testing will be published in Part II in Kybernetes, Vol. 22 No. 7, 1993.