Title: A multi-perspective view on global economic and ecological system

Authors: Martina Pfarrhofer

Addresses: GLOBAL STUDIES, Institut für Wirtschafts-, Sozial- und Unternehmensgeschichte, Universitätsstraße 15/E2, 8010 Graz, Austria

Abstract: Interdisciplinary thinking is essential in order to find solutions to many challenges of our time and avoid a lack of foresight. This article points out the importance of thinking in multiple perspectives and shows one example of how different fields and theories can be combined. This leads to conclusions, which cannot be neglected for understanding our world and should be considered for further developments. The example brings together the global economic system and the ecological system by using basic principles of Niklas Luhmann's systems theory. Although being considered as differentiated systems they influence each other. Contrasting developments and differing fundamental characteristics lead to discrepancies, which endanger many organisms and can only be resolved if they are approached on a broad and interdisciplinary basis.

Keywords: ecological economics; ecological system; ecology; economic system; environment; future development; global studies; growth; interdisciplinary; multi-perceptivity; rethinking economics; systems theory; transdisciplinary.

DOI: 10.1504/IJFIP.2017.085816

International Journal of Foresight and Innovation Policy, 2017 Vol.12 No.1/2/3, pp.47 - 57

Received: 12 Jan 2017
Accepted: 02 Apr 2017
Published online: 14 Aug 2017 *

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