TB871: “Objectivity is the delusion that observations could be made without an observer”: the life and work of Heinz von Foerster
Note: this is a post reflecting on one of the modules of my MSc in Systems Thinking in Practice. You can see all of the related posts in this category.
Heinz von Foerster (1911–2002) was a seminal figure in the development of second-order cybernetics and a staunch advocate of constructivist epistemology. His work challenged traditional views of knowledge and reality, placing the observer at the center of the systems they engage with, rather than as an external, objective viewer. This shift in perspective has had a profound impact on systems thinking, emphasizing the role of human agency in shaping the realities we encounter.
Constructivism and second-order cybernetics
Von Foerster’s most enduring contribution to systems thinking is his development of second-order cybernetics, which focuses on the role of the observer within a system. Unlike first-order cybernetics, which views systems as separate from the observer, second-order cybernetics recognizes that the observer is an integral part of the system. Von Foerster famously stated, “The observer must be included in the description of that which they observe”. This insight was revolutionary, as it acknowledged that any observation is inherently influenced by the observer’s perspectives, biases, and intentions.
Central to von Foerster’s philosophy was his constructivist view of knowledge, which asserts that reality is not discovered but constructed by individuals through their interactions with the world. He encapsulated this view by declaring, “Reality is a construct of those who believe in it”. This idea challenges the notion of an objective, external reality, suggesting instead that what we consider to be real is shaped by our experiences, perceptions, and social interactions.
Von Foerster extended this constructivist approach to communication and interaction, emphasizing the active role of individuals in creating meaning. He articulated this in his principle that “anything said is said by an observer” and “anything said is said to an observer”. These statements underscore the idea that communication is a dynamic process involving both the speaker and the listener, each of whom plays a role in constructing the meaning of the message.
Ethics and human agency
Von Foerster was also deeply concerned with the ethical implications of his constructivist and cybernetic views. He introduced the concept of the “ethical imperative,” which he phrased as, “Act always so as to increase the number of choices”. This principle reflects his belief in the importance of fostering flexibility and openness in systems, allowing for greater adaptability and creativity. It also highlights the responsibility of individuals to consider the consequences of their actions within the systems they are a part of, reinforcing the idea that we are active participants in shaping our realities.
Legacy and impact
Heinz von Foerster’s constructivist approach continues to influence a wide range of fields, from education to management. His work invites us to reconsider the nature of reality, knowledge, and communication, encouraging a more reflexive and participatory approach to systems thinking. By placing the observer at the heart of the system, von Foerster’s ideas challenge us to acknowledge our role in creating the worlds we inhabit and to take responsibility for the ethical implications of our actions.
References
- Ramage, M., & Shipp, K. (2020). Systems Thinkers (2nd ed.). The Open University and Springer.
- Wikipedia contributors. (2024). Heinz von Foerster. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved August 14, 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinz_von_Foerster
Image created by DALL-E 3
