Different Perspectives Deepen Understanding
A systems thinker understands that in order to more holistically grasp a problem or challenge, we need to seek diverse and different perspectives.
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In this cartoon we see how one person’s solution is the other person’s problem - and vice-versa. The problem is only partially understood if we look at it from one side, and we miss the larger problem if we do not include both perspectives. The same thing applies to many complex problems we face. Remember the water shortage scenario from earlier: drilling a well for instant relief might solve one element of the problem, but it fails to consider the consequences that could have far more severe impacts in the future. Different people or groups have different perspectives and interests. A systems thinking approach encourages us to grasp the larger picture by understanding multiple perspectives.