Description of Challenge
how to change the structure of a system to produce more of what we want and less of what we don't? Oftentimes people involved in systems know intuitively where to find leverage points but end up pushing in the wrong direction. The most pressing example is the obsession with economic growth as a solution to global inequality and un-sustainability.“The idea of leverage points is not unique to systems analysis..the silver bullet; the miracle cure...we want to know where they are and how to get our hands on them. Leverage points are points of power”. Donella H Meadows, Author.
Solution
Donella Meadows proposed a list of suggestions to consider as likely areas for systems change. Her list is not, by her own admission, a definitive one and should be viewed as a guide. By considering the possible leverage points we can more easily consider carefully where we might intervene. Caution must be exercised as complex systems are often counter-intuitive in their reactions.
