A Big Map of Transition

This map first came into existence when I taught a module on Transition at Schumacher College in 2012. It brought together many pieces I had been holding into one coherent systems model. Where many “whole systems” models include only outer systems, this model includes outer and inner, embodying the understanding that our material actions / interactions and our state of consciousness and its constant movement are inseparable. If we want to work in a whole systems way we need the insights and understandings to work with human psychology, including the unconscious, inter-personal and societal dynamis, as well as technology, biology, ecology, geology, environmental and other disciplines of the outer world.

I was impressed to find this model reflected at the heart of Buddhism when teaching another course on “A mindful life” with a long time buddhist nun, Kaira Jewel Lingo. Reading about the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism I saw that  strong parallels with this four x four quadrant model. For me this is a confirmation that the model is pointing to something of value, a way of seeing that occurs in many places and from different kinds of enquiry into how reality works.