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# The Systems Thinking Case for the Liberal Arts

## Details

**Authors** Donaldson W, Harter N

**Year** 2024

**Publisher** Journal of Systems Thinking 4(1):1-19

**Kind of work** article

**Discipline** Education

**Reading level** intermediate

**Kind of engagement** scholarly

[Read it at the publisher](https://doi.org/10.54120/jost.2025-0067WD) 
10.54120/jost.2025-0067WD

## In authors' words

### Abstract

This paper makes a case for using a systems thinking approach to teaching the liberal arts. The authors believe the current siloed, reductionist disciplinary approach to technical challenges is insufficient to prepare students to address the complex adaptive system challenges. We propose that an interdisciplinary systems approach will better prepare undergraduates for the messy real world into which they will enter.

### What they set out to do (purpose)

A paper making the case for teaching the liberal arts through a systems thinking approach.

### What they found (results)

The siloed, reductionist disciplinary model does not prepare students for complex adaptive challenges; an interdisciplinary systems approach would prepare undergraduates better for the messy real world.

## Commentary

### In short

Argues for teaching the liberal arts through an interdisciplinary systems thinking approach.

**Patterns it shows** S

**How to cite this** Donaldson W, Harter N (2024). The Systems Thinking Case for the Liberal Arts. Journal of Systems Thinking 4(1):1-19.