The world in which classical positivistic science and technology obtained great success has vanished. However, the way of thinking promoted by that epoch still lingers in our social consciousness, sometimes as a burden. To conquer the shortcomings of classical analytical science in the modern, ever more complex world, systems theory and its applications within systems science present an alternative to old paradigms.Systems theorists see common principles in the structure and operation of systems of all kinds and sizes. They promote an interdisciplinary science adapted for a universal application with a common language and area of concepts. This approach is seen as a means of not only overcoming the fragmentation of knowledge and the isolation of the specialist, but also finding new solutions to problems created by the earlier “solution of problems”.This book introduces the systemic alternative. It is divided into two parts. The first is devoted to the historical background of the systems movement, and presents pioneering thoughts and theories of the area. Basic concepts of general systems theory with well-known laws and principles are discussed, as well as related topics like cybernetics and information theory.The second part deals with some of the common applications of systems theory within systems science, such as artificial intelligence, management information systems and informatics. An attempt is made to predict the future of systems theory in a world apparently becoming fragmented and integrated at the same time.To engage oneself in systems theory and its striving towards an applied universal science is a highly cross-scientific occupation. The reader will come into contact with many different academic disciplines, and consequently the possibility of an all-round education — something particularly needed in our over-specialized world.Contents: The Theories and Why:The Emergence of Holistic ThinkingBasic Ideas of General Systems TheoryA Selection of Systems TheoriesCommunication and Information TheorySome Theories of Brain and MindThe Applications and How:Artificial Intelligence and LifeOrganization Theory and Management CyberneticsDecision Making and Decision AidsInformaticsSome of the Systems MethodologiesThe Future of Systems TheoryReadership: Computer specialists, architects, businessmen, teachers and holistic thinkers.Key Features:Represents the first comprehensive analysis of chronic poverty in Asia. Most books tend to deal with specific issues or specific countries, while others, such as the Chronic Poverty Research Center in the UK, look at poverty from a global perspectiveSystematically analyzes the nature of chronic poverty including the social, economic and geographic characteristics of the rural poor in AsiaDiscusses what policies have been and could be adopted to address chronic poverty from the microeconomic, sector and macroeconomic standpointsThe first author, John Malcolm Dowling, is a well-known Asian development specialist with extensive experience in Asia, having taught in Iran, Singapore and Thailand as well as having extensive experience in dealing with these countries while he was employed at the Asian Development Bank for 15 years