Systems theory in political science is a highly
abstract, partly holistic view of politics,
influenced by cybernetics.
The adaptation of system theory to political
science was first conceived by David Easton
in 1953.
== Overview ==
In simple terms, Easton's behavioral approach
to politics, proposed that a political system
could be seen as a delimited (i.e. all political
systems have precise boundaries) and fluid
(changing) system of steps in decision making.
Greatly simplifying his model:
Influence of computers on the discipline of
political science and the political system
work within an environment.
The environment generates different demands
from different section of society such as
reservation system in the matter of a certain
group,demand for better transportation etc.
Step 1.
changes in the social or physical environment
surrounding a political system produce "demands"
and "supports" for action or the status quo
directed as "inputs" towards the political
system, through political behavior.
Step 2, these demands and supporting groups
stimulate competition in a political system,
leading to decisions or "outputs" directed
at some aspect of the surrounding social or
physical environment.
Step 3, after a decision or output is made
(e.g., a specific policy), it interacts with
its environment, and if it produces change
in the environment, there are "outcomes."
Step 4, when a new policy interacts with its
environment, outcomes may generate new demands
or supports and groups in support or against
the policy ("feedback") or a new policy on
some related matter.
Step 5, feedback, leads back to Step 1, forming
a never-ending cycle.If the system functions
as described, then we have a "stable political
system".
If the system breaks down, then we have a
"dysfunctional political system".
=== Political analysis ===
Easton aspired to make politics a science,
that is, working with highly abstract models
that described the regularities of patterns
and processes in political life in general.
In his view, the highest level of abstraction
could make scientific generalizations about
politics possible.
In sum, politics should be seen as a whole,
not as a collection of different problems
to be solved.His main model was driven by
an organic view of politics, as if it were
a living object.
His theory is a statement of what makes political
systems adapt and survive.
He describes politics in a constant flux,
thereby rejecting the idea of "equilibrium",
so prevalent in some other political theories
(see institutionalism).
Moreover, he rejects the idea that politics
could be examined by looking at different
levels of analysis.
His abstractions could account for any group
and demand at any given time.
That is, interest group theory and elite theory
can be subsumed in political systems analysis.
His theory was and is highly influential in
the pluralist tradition in political science.
(see Harold Lasswell and Robert Dahl)
== See also ==
Behavioralism
David Easton
Karl W. Deutsch
Structural-functionalism
Niklas Luhmann
