Reflections on Interactions in Systems

Abstract

There are two ways the interactions of the elements, or parts, of a system are important. First, interactions are a basic part of the definition of a system. This chapter discusses the many roles that interactions may play in the system. Among these roles is a mechanism for the system to achieve its role as a system, namely its purpose, which is the objective of the entire system and is more than the sum of the objectives of the individual parts. Second, other roles include the ability of the elements to achieve synergy among the various other elements.  This synergy serves to enable the system to achieve the level of holism needed to qualify as a true system.