DECISIONS (Collective)
| Collection | International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics |
|---|---|
| Year | 2004 |
| Vol. (num.) | 2(1) |
| ID | ◀ 833 ▶ |
| Object type | Human sciences |
The global results of very numerous individual decisions taken simultaneously.
Of course, the global effects observed are nobody's personal responsability. But, as observed by W. HARMAN, we should seek a way “toward resolution of the fundamental dilemma that the resultant of the microdecisions is so typically an unsatisfactory macrodecision” (1972, p.91). As noted by HARMAN the solution should not depend on Adam SMITH “invisible hand”, nor on manipulation by a technocratic elite or by irresponsible bureaucracies. Rather, in HARMAN's words “it depends on re-education to perceive suitable macrodecisions and appropriate microdecisions to lead toward them, and on a shift in cultural values'' to support the process” (Ibid).
The issue of global pollution, and the global decisions to be taken and applied, in all their complexity, is a very good example, among many others.