Big Theory—Strong Theory: The Ontological Ghost of Post-Ontological Epistemology

摘要

This article introduces and discusses the difference between big theory and strong theory. While the former centres on identity, symmetry, and universality, the latter insists upon the self-reflexive, autopoietic, and paradoxical nature of theory and theorizing. Taking off from this distinction, the article investigates the crucial interconnections between strong theory, systems theory (Luhmann), deconstruction (Derrida), and form theory (Spencer-Brown), while simultaneously stressing the problematic use of ontological ideas and concepts in these theories that otherwise seek to transgress a Western tradition of a metaphysics of ontology. The article consist of three parts.First, a general sketch of the partition of big and strong theory is laid out. Second, an introduction to main aspects of the form logic of Spencer-Brown is presented in order to portray the principal, systemic apparatus of Luhmann and more generally to discuss the structural design of strong theory. Third, a comparison of Derrida's practice of textual dissemination and Luhmann's systems theory is focused upon. Conclusively, some tentative remarks of the inherent limits of strong theory vis-a-vis systems theory are optioned.