A concise approach to eigenform and reflexivity

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the concept and praxis for eigenform in the context of second-order cybernetics.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is designed as a formal (partly mathematical) introduction with excursions into the applications and meanings of these constructions. Mathematics studies what a distinction would be if there could be a distinction. Mathematics is a special form of fictional design. This study raises the question of “What it would mean to go beyond mathematics or for mathematics to go beyond itself?”.

Findings

This study shows how objects in the author’s experience can be seen to be eigenforms and that in this context such objects are a construct of their interactions, linguistic and otherwise experiential. In this way, the author can investigate scientifically without the need for an assumption of objectivity. The author cocreates the universe through the discovery of distinctions and eigenforms in their dialogue with what can be.

Research limitations/implications

The implications of this research are profound for the performance and exploration of science. The author can explore their role in that creation and find that what they create is independent of significant subsets of their actions.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this study are strongest for the logical understanding of the author’s constructions and actions. They have used eigenform and reflexivity to maintain a clear view of their participation in their own worlds.

Social implications

The social implications are in accordance with the practical implications. The author can now admit that they each produce eigenform models of the others and for themselves. These models have in-depth usage, in that it is understood that one is not identical with their models.

Originality/value

This paper presents a highly original and very simple way to incorporate second-order cybernetics into all thought and action.

Citation

Kauffman, L.H. (2017), "A concise approach to eigenform and reflexivity", Kybernetes, Vol. 46 No. 9, pp. 1542-1554. https://doi.org/10.1108/K-11-2016-0306