Title: Philosophical insights in system modelling: an application to the field of innovation systems

Authors: UngKyu Han; Martin Kunc

Addresses: Operational Research and Management Sciences, Warwick Business School, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK ' Operational Research and Management Sciences, Warwick Business School, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK

Abstract: This paper argues for the need to establish a 'dualistic' philosophical approach to systems in system dynamics modelling. The example of a regional innovation system permits an investigation into the influence of philosophical perspectives on the analysis of systems, including decision-making processes and the implementation of policies identifying key influences. Results show that any dynamic regional innovation system, over time, finds it impossible to apply only one approach, with the result that the perception of its systemic problems and the corresponding managerial solutions are likely to change. Therefore, system dynamicists in the innovation policy area should pursue a dialectical policy of 'thesis-antithesis-synthesis', reflecting the ever-changing conditions within and around innovation systems.

Keywords: philosophy; system dynamics; regional innovation systems; RIS; system modelling; decision making; innovation policy.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEBR.2015.069681

International Journal of Economics and Business Research, 2015 Vol.9 No.4, pp.437 - 453

Published online: 29 May 2015 *

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