Human systems in terms of natural systems? Employing non-equilibrium thermodynamics for evaluating industrial ecology's 'ecosystem metaphor'
by Christoph Bey, Ralf Isenmann
International Journal of Sustainable Development (IJSD), Vol. 8, No. 3, 2005

Abstract: Understanding industrial systems in terms of natural systems forms the central pillar of Industrial Ecology. This paper argues that its method of comparing individual companies with participants in natural ecosystems is problematic, arising from a level of ecosystem analysis inappropriate to explain the common root of these two kinds of complex systems. The comparison between these two constitutes an employment of a scientific metaphor, whose role in theory building needs to be understood better: useful in inspiring discovery, but needing a solid foundation for being a valid science. Supposedly similar behaviour between natural and industrial systems cannot by itself constitute a valid theory basis. We suggest looking at thermodynamic characteristics; structures are developed in order to incorporate and thus to dissipate inflowing solar energy, threatening to disrupt the stability of a complex system in its immediate environment. Finally, the paper discusses the consequences and limits of this perspective for industrial ecological work.

Online publication date: Thu, 02-Feb-2006

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Sustainable Development (IJSD):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com