Introduction to Autopoiesis Theory and Autopoietic Steering

Abstract

A new scientific theory that has been attracting attention in recent years, and will in all likelihood have a considerable effect on several fields of research, is the autopoi-esis theory. Stafford Beer (1980) refers to it as one of the most important innovations in systems theory. Boulding (1981) predicted that the autopoietic concept is likely to have a considerable impact on several disciplines, from thermodynamics to sociology. And in a way it already has. Autopoiesis is a dominant concept in a sociological theory developed by Luhmann (1984). In other social sciences, though its value is not undisputed, the attention given to the concept is growing. Morgan (1986) attempted to adapt autopoiesis to organizational science, while Teubner (1989a) has done the same in the field of law. By applying autopoiesis theory in the field of public administration and policy sciences, new insights can be developed regarding the (im)possibilities of societal steering.