CHAPTER 2: THE SYSTEMS THEORY AS A

METATHEORY
2.4 Critique of the systems theory
The systems theory has been both commended and criticised in several regards. The
systems theory is viewed as an influential tradition in communication (Littlejohn
2002:52), being the first theory to describe the relationships within and between systems
(Luhmann 2008; Von Bertalanffy 1972; Walby 2007). It provides useful logic and
common vocabulary that can be meaningfully applied to a variety of fields and topics
(Littlejohn 2002). Pouvreau (2014) states that any shortcomings in the work of Von
Bertalanffy (1950; 1955; 1962; 1967; 1968) were well complemented by the work of Klir
(1969; 1985; 1988), Rapoport (1963; 1970; 1974) and Rosen (1977; 1979; 1991), and
concludes that general systems theory is relevant for contemporary research.
However, Delia (1977) asserts that the systems theory cannot be a generally applicable
framework as well as explain specific real-world events at the same time. In this study, it
is posited that it is possible and perhaps even likely that the same set of principles can
be applied both generally and specifically; therefore, there was no objection to the
systems theory on this account. The theoretical framework resulting from this study
includes both a generic model and a more specific framework that provides a picture of
current ILR trends.
Critics regard the various (and at times conflicting) approaches that are all labelled
under ‘systems theory’ as confusing (Bahg 1990). However, proponents maintain that
the systems theory is a variety of related tools that can be applied in many useful ways,
and that the wide applicability of notions such as wholeness and interdependence
demonstrates the strength of the approach (Littlejohn 2002). Pouvreau (2014) concurs
that the plural used in the designation ‘systems’ expresses an awareness of multiple
systemic approaches that form part of ‘general systems theory’. In addition, systems
theories of communication are quite specific, illuminate concrete experiences, are
consistent and mutually supportive, and possess a common
vocabulary that creates coherence (Littlejohn 2002). Therefore, the systems theory can
be appropriately and meaningfully applied to ILR in this study.
Delia (1977) criticised the systems theory for positing similarities between very dissimilar
events and disciplines that ought to require different explanations. Fisher (1978:196)
claimed that the systems theory is not a theory at all, but “a loosely organised and
highly abstract set of principles”, while Cushman (1977) objected that it is too general to
provide substantive questions for investigation. However, Baker (1975) maintained that,
whereas system ideas may initially appear abstract, if properly applied they can be of
great practical relevance in the management processes of almost any organisation.
Martin and O'Connor (1989) state that knowledge is indeed transferrable between social
systems; thus, learning about one social system provides insight into other social
systems.
According to Von Bertalanffy (1962), the systems theory, while enhancing scholarly
thinking, does not explain why phenomena occur as they do. Searight and Merkel (1991)
argue that researchers applying the systems theory may overlook significant problems
that are ignored by system principles, for instance intrapersonal problems. Yet, for the
purpose of this study, it is posited that most theories do not answer the question of
‘why’ phenomena occur, and that this question may not even be answerable at all.
However, examining ‘how’ phenomena occur is another angle from which a
phenomenon can be explained, and it is argued that the systems theory has strength in
this regard, particularly with reference to the qualitative nature of this study. Dekkers
(2017:293) claims that systems concepts can be used to analyse research findings,
particularly in qualitative research. Littlejohn (2002) states that much of communication
theory assumes a systems approach, without labelling it as such. It is argued that the
systems theory can contribute significantly towards answering the research questions in
this study.
Schneider and Bauer (2007) implied that, due to the high level of interdependence in
social systems, the systems theory has very little ability to predict the future state of a
system. Similarly, it can suggest potential scenarios, but cannot suggest the best course
of action. In this regard, it should be noted that the aim of this study is not to predict
future behaviour, but to describe current views and experiences of ILR. In this regard,
Asencio-Guillén and Navío- Marco (2018:27) note that the systems perspective is useful
in understanding complex phenomena, in contrast with linear and analytical approaches
that break the object of study into smaller parts, ignoring the complex relations between
them. Hatch (2018:37) concurs that systems theory is used by many contemporary
theorists to solve high-order problems. Schelbe, Randolph, Yelick, Cheatham and Groton
(2018) found that the systems theory played
an important role in identifying intervention components in a particular social support
programme.
In this study, the systems theory – as any theory applied in a research study – is
regarded as a particular lens through which a phenomenon is examined. In and of its
nature, the systems theory is applicable to a wide range of phenomena. This does not
imply that these phenomena may not be viewed through different lenses, with different
results. For the present study, the systems theory is considered to provide a relevant
metatheory within which ILR may be examined.
Berger (1977) claimed that the systems theory overcomplicates essentially simple events,
and some versions of the systems theory have been criticised for being highly abstract
and complex (Morgner & King 2017). However, Baker (1975:30) posited that the basic
concepts of the systems theory are relatively simple, “although not too simple to be
relevant to the immense complexity of real life”. It is posited that social systems are
relatively complex, being influenced by a large number of intrapersonal, interpersonal
and societal variables. For the purpose of this study, then, the systems theory presents a
relatively simple framework with which to understand complex social phenomena. It is
suggested that ILR may have been overlooked and oversimplified in the past and that
the systems theory may aid in describing how this complex phenomenon occurs in
contemporary knowledge-based organisational contexts.
In document A theoretical framework for constructive interpersonal leadership relations in
knowledge-based organisations (Page 58-60)