R-Theory by John J. Kineman
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R-Theory, or Relational Holon Theory, proposed by John J Kineman synthesizes Robert Rosen’s work on complex systems, particularly highlighting that living systems are defined by their internal organization (relational complexity) rather than just material parts. It bridges Rosen’s (M,R)-systems (metabolism-repair) with his theory of modeling relations, establishing that organisms are causally closed and possess anticipatory, non-computable properties. This framework posits that living systems are non-mechanistic, exhibiting complex, closed-loop causalities—often termed (M, R)-systems or metabolic-repair systems—that cannot be reduced to simple, algorithmic, or purely Newtonian models.
Key Aspects of R-Theory and Rosen's Complexity
Definition of Life
Rosen defined living organisms as systems "closed to efficient causation," meaning they are self-producing and self-repairing, which distinguishes them from machines.
Modeling Relation
Unlike machines, organisms construct internal surrogates for time, allowing for anticipation and behavioral flexibility rather than merely reacting to environmental inputs.
Beyond Mechanism
While mechanisms (machines) have open, predictable causal chains, living systems are defined by complex, closed loops that cannot be fully described by algorithms, requiring, instead, a shift toward relational, non-mechanistic science.
Synthesis of Concepts
R-Theory integrates the mathematical description of causality (category theory) with the contextual, holistic understanding of organisms, addressing the need for a non-reductionist approach to biology.
R-Theory argues that the "functional" aspects of life are essential, suggesting that the complexity of relations—not just the number of components—defines a system's behavior and existence
Citations
- Kineman, J. J. (2012). R‐theory: A synthesis of Robert Rosen's relational complexity. Systems Research and Behavioral Science, 29(5), 527-538. https://doi.org/10.1002/sres.2156
- Kineman, J. (2011, September). R-theory: A further commentary on the synthesis of relational science. In Proceedings of the 55th Annual Meeting of the ISSS-2011, Hull, UK. https://journals.isss.org/index.php/proceedings55th/article/download/1713/585