The limits to language in doing systems design

Abstract

We employ a conversational genre of performative research in order to explore foundational issues of language and design in information system practice. Initially, Sir Geoffrey Vickers (†2004), C. West Churchman (†1999), Hans-Georg Gadamer (†1982) and Jurgen Habermas are portrayed as engaging in a roundtable discussion on the topic: “Are there Limits to Language in Doing System Design?” We employ an updated, AI-enhanced version of Memex, an intelligent agent originally described by Vannevar Bush at the end of WWII, to serve as a plausible digital platform for enabling a discussion among intelligent agents, both living and dead. The Memex system conducts a spirited conversation among the four scholars and later brings Pierre Bourdieu (†2002) and Bruno Latour into the discussion in order to enrich the unfolding conversation. After the roundtable, Jurgen Habermas and Sir Geoffrey Vickers synthesize the learning from their perspectives.

Keywords:

• practice-led
• performative research
• Memex
• ideal conversation
• social constructionist
• techne
• polis

Special Issue Guest Editors: Michel Avital, Lars Mathiassen and Ulrike Schultze.

Special Issue Guest Editors: Michel Avital, Lars Mathiassen and Ulrike Schultze.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Richard J. Boland

About the Authors

Richard J. Boland Jr. is Elizabeth M. and William C. Treuhaft Professor of Management and Director of the Ph.D. program in the Department of Design and Innovation at the Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio.

Kalle Lyytinen

Kalle Lyytinen is Iris S. Wolstein Professor of Design and Management and Chair of the Department of Design and Innovation, and also Director of Academic Affairs for Doctor of Management Programs at the Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio.