Reference #381: Thinking in Systems

The system archetype of shifting the burden to the intervenor arises when a solution to a systemic problem reduces or disguises the symptoms but does nothing to solve the underlying issue. This is also known as dependence or addiction.

In some cases the intervention erodes the ability of the system to maintain itself, making more difficult the task of implementing a long-term solution to the systemic problem. This creates a destructive reinforcing feedback loop — more of the "solution" is required just to maintain the systems's state.

While substance addiction (such as to drugs or alcohol) is an obvious example of this archetype, it also appears in the reliance of farmers on fertilisers, or in policy such as the dependence of an industry on government subsidies. (Aside: see also the reliance of start-ups on easy VC funding).

Meadows. Thinking in Systems, 2008. (131, 135)

← PreviousNext →