A philosophical discussion of the root definition in soft systems thinking: an enrichment of CATWOE

Abstract

After a brief review of some problems in CATWOE analysis in Checkland's soft systems methodology, we suggest that they may be ameliorated by employing Dooyeweerd's multi-aspectual philosophy. A systematic approach is taken to reconceptualize each element of CATWOE within a Dooyeweerdian framework, the relevant portions of which are explained. In the process our understanding of CATWOE is enriched and made easier for the SSM apprentice to grasp. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.