In this KNoT, we explore cybernetic methods for exploring the practice of history from a systems point-of-view. Specifically, you will learn ways to both analyse the common, dominant narratives that compose our historical self-understanding and ways in which to generate different perceptions of events, uncover hidden stories and voices, and plot alternative paths forward.
The methods we will consider include:
- Teleology – the idea of purpose
- Recursion – the idea of loops, circular causality, feedback
- Requisite variety – the idea of how complex phenomena are managed
- Futures – the idea of alternative histories and new paths
This is one of 4 Cybernetics for social impact KNoTs offered.
Reflection prompt: What new insights have you gained in relation to how our assumptions and dominant narratives create stories/histories and how we can generate new/alternative ones.