Viable boundary critique

Abstract

Issue-based problem situations can often be seen as conflicts that must be managed or resolved. Boundary critique theory, developed by Midgley as part of critical systems thinking, can be used to model conflicts. However, its utility can be enhanced when it is linked to the cybernetic theory of viable systems, therefore creating viable boundary critique analysis. Boundary critique can provide an ethical analysis that can explore the meanings and processes associated with conflicts. Viable boundary critique enables differentiable social pluralities to be better explored and provides a broader space for the consideration of political and ideological attributes of conflict that develop beyond Midgley's ethical analysis. It also provides for a new way of defining and measuring power. A number of the characteristics of boundary critique analysis are considered in the context of a case study relating to the recent Liverpool dock strike.

Keywords:

• boundary critique
• critical systems thinking
• cybemetics
• viable systems
• conflict