Dean of the College Presents
Faculty Seminar
Rethinking Democracy: A Systems Perspective on the Global Political Unrest
Presented by Gennady Shkliarevsky
The paper seeks to make a contribution toward a better understanding of the current global political unrest. It argues that this unrest reflects ongoing tensions between hierarchical and non-hierarchical interactions. It also argues that the opposition between hierarchical and non-hierarchical interactions is not ontological but rather is rooted in the way we approach reality and is, therefore, subject to our control. The tendency to exclude the process of construction from our frame of vision is characteristic for the view of reality that is dominant in our civilization. Contemporary theoretical perspectives that include, but are not limited to, systems theory, complexity theory, theory of self-organization, emergence theory, and autopoiesis have much to offer in addressing and resolving this problem. The paper outlines some general organizing principles that should be part of this solution.
For more information, call 845-758-7490, or e-mail [email protected].
Location: Olin Humanities, Room 102