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Health systems research and critical systems thinking: the case for partnership
Author(s) -
Jackson Michael C.,
Sambo Luis G.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
systems research and behavioral science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.371
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1099-1743
pISSN - 1092-7026
DOI - 10.1002/sres.2638
Subject(s) - general partnership , systems thinking , management science , systems theory , domain (mathematical analysis) , healthcare system , order (exchange) , field (mathematics) , face (sociological concept) , complex system , system of systems , computer science , systems science , engineering ethics , sociology , epistemology , knowledge management , health care , systems design , political science , engineering , business , artificial intelligence , social science , mathematics , mathematical analysis , philosophy , software engineering , finance , pure mathematics , law
There has been a considerable growth in interest in Health Systems Research over the last 25 years. It is only recently, however, that health systems researchers have started to examine the key conceptual tool in their armoury – the notion of ‘system'; – and only then in a sporadic fashion. This paper argues that the failure to undertake this challenge has held back the field both theoretically and in terms of practice. Critical systems thinkers have, by contrast, spent the last 30 years conducting a second‐order analysis of different systems and complexity approaches, the way they employ the concept of ‘system';, and the difference this makes to the theories espoused and the modes of intervention endorsed. They have also explored how different systems approaches can be used in combination to bring about improvement by addressing the multi‐dimensional complexity thrown up by wicked problems. What critical systems thinkers have failed to do is get their hands dirty and demonstrate, through practical application, that their approach is useful in the health systems domain. Given the significance of health systems for public well‐being, and their inherent complexity, this is something that needs rectifying. If Critical Systems Thinking can support Health Systems Research with appropriate theories and methodologies, and health systems researchers are willing to involve critical systems thinkers in tackling the major issues they face, then a fruitful partnership can be forged.