System effect

The JC’s amateur guide to systems theory™ →Go uptown Index: Click ᐅ to expand: Systems theory The Devil’s Advocate Tell me more Sign up for our newsletter — or just get in touch: for ½ a weekly 🍺 you get to consult JC. Ask about it here.

System effect
(n.)
An emergent property of a system created by the flows, feedback loops, stocks and flows within the system that create incentives and opportunities for system components to behave in ways that produce a given result, especially an unexpected one.

For example, the JC has a theory that over time, the fundamental structure of the modern service economy — and not just embittered boomers — will encourage people out of their pyjamas and back into the office. This is a system effect, and not some conspiracy the man against people who can’t be bothered to commute.

See also

• Working from home