Abstract
The concept of narrative self-reference incorporates selected aspects of literary theory into the theory of self-referential systems in order to sharpen its analytical and explanatory perspective on certain linguistic structures. Since cybernetics and systems theory focus mainly on computer-aided metaphors and information, the narrative approach provides a better insight into meaning. Narrative self-reference is the narrated sequence of events that constructs a simplified self-image in the referred system-environment relations (e.g., in history or future visions), and thereby stabilizes the system. In practice, these narratives become the pivot of the social and psychic system and sketch contingent collectivities and actions. Since narrative self-reference is not static but rewritten, continued and entangled in various present practices, it offers flexibility against new and disappointed expectations as well as stability for accountability and planning. In this context, further theoretical concepts of legitimation theory, sociology of technology, and the philosophy of science and neuroscience are compared. In summary, this article formulates a systems-theoretical research interest in the negotiating power of narratives that create system boundaries for cooperation and a common basis for the evaluation of knowledge.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 38-51 |
Journal | Journal of Sociocybernetics |
Volume | 15 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 27 Dec 2018 |
Externally published | Yes |