Systems theory in Geomorphology. A challenge
- Author(s)
- Kirsten von Elverfeldt, Thomas Glade
- Abstract
Every scientific observation and explanation is based on theory, and also the respective results are strongly dependent on the theoretical background of the individual researcher. In many cases, if not most, general systems theory builds this theoretical background within geomorphology. However, as a result of the widespread acceptance of geomorphic systems theory and the strong empirical orientation of the discipline, its theoretical foundation as well as the definitions and basic assumptions are rarely (if at all) questioned and analysed. Thus, it is rarely asked 'What is as system?' or 'What are the basic assumptions of geomorphological systems theory and do they still apply to our present knowledge?'. This paper tries to answer these questions by analyzing how geomorphologists conduct their research. Within the geomorphological theoretical framework, geomorphic systems are considered as open, i.e. they have in- and outputs which enable the environment of the system to highly influence the system. At the same time, the openness of geomorphic systems brings with it difficulties in system delineation, and reveals inconsistencies with the concept of equilibrium and cause-and-effect relationships. With the concepts of self-reference, autopoiesis and operative closeness of systems we put first thoughts for a (paradigmatic) re-orientation of the discipline up for discussion.
- Organisation(s)
- Department of Geography and Regional Research
- Journal
- Zeitschrift für Geomorphologie, Supplementbaende
- Volume
- 55
- Pages
- 87-108
- No. of pages
- 22
- ISSN
- 1864-1687
- Publication date
- 2011
- Peer reviewed
- Yes
- Austrian Fields of Science 2012
- 105404 Geomorphology
- Portal url
- https://ucrisportal.univie.ac.at/en/publications/e549a2bf-f798-45e3-8682-f19bf5a2ccc3