MISSION

The Systems Thinking Channel is NTARI's research initiative dedicated to exploring the complementary relationship between systems thinking methodologies and network theory applications. We examine how holistic perspectives on complex systems enhance network-based approaches through collaborative research, multimedia content creation, and practical applications. By investigating the principles of emergence, feedback loops, and system boundaries alongside network dynamics, we develop integrated frameworks that strengthen NTARI's ability to address complex global challenges.

OBJECTIVES

Develop multimedia research outputs that illuminate the synergies between systems thinking and network theory

Create accessible educational resources that introduce systems thinking principles to the NTARI community

Apply integrated systems-network approaches to analyze complex social, ecological, and technological challenges

Virality feels like chaos. One day it's a meme, a tweet, a dance. The next day it's a movement.

But behind every viral moment lies a deeper structure not just digital infrastructure, but a living system. Virality, when viewed through the lenses of systems thinking and network theory, becomes something else entirely:

An emergent pattern produced by the dense, dynamic interconnections of people, platforms, algorithms and culture. Let’s see how:

Virality as a Complex Adaptive System

Systems thinking shows us that nothing operates in isolation. In the case of virality, the system includes:

Analyzing the Relationship: Network Theory + Emergence Theory = Systems Thinking?

Introduction

Is Systems Thinking simply the sum of Network Theory and Emergence Theory? This analysis examines whether the equation "Network Theory + Emergence Theory = Systems Thinking" is true or false based on our research into the core definitions of each field.

Defining the Components

Network Theory Core Concepts

Based on our research, Network Theory primarily: