What Postformal Thought Is, and Why It Matters

Abstract

The four stages of postformal thought are Systematic, Metasystematic, Paradigmatic, and Cross-Paradigmatic. Each successive stage is more hierarchically complex than the one that precedes it. Each stage uses the elements formed at the previous stage to construct more hierarchically complex elements (e.g., metasystems, paradigms). An actual instrument constructed using the Model of Hierarchical Complexity illustrates the progression in hierarchical complexity. Another example illustrates the nonlinear nature of hierarchical complexity. The distinct tasks of the four stages are described. Postformal thought benefits interpersonal, societal, and academic endeavors by virtue of the kinds of tasks performed at each stage.

KEYWORDS:

• Cross-paradigmatic
• metasystematic
• nonlinear
• paradigmatic
• postformal
• systematic

Notes

1. This stage was introduced by Herb Koplowitz (personal communication, 1982). He suggested that metasystems and general systems must operate on systems while we were working on a chapter of his at Dare Institute.

2. For many articles on this subject, see www.integralleadershipreview.com