Pragmatic idealism as the basis for understanding complex domains: the trinity and SOSE

摘要

This paper gives an initial theoretical exposition of pragmatic idealism; the philosophy that forms the base for analysis, design and transformation of complex situations, including system of systems. The philosophy is presented in the form of a trinity composed of the epistemology, ontology and methodology. The philosophy is a derivative of idealism, pragmatism, and fallibilism. Unifying many of the concepts is an epistemological model of complexity. The methodology is presented as a set of principles, structure and requirements that must be met in the development of methods. Some of the propositions upon which the methodology is built are highlighted. As part of the conclusions, it is argued that for the creation of robust methodologies, methods, approaches, etc. to deal with complex situations one must accommodate for the lack of understanding that is inherent in complex situations.