Open System (glossary)

A system which exchanges inputs and outputs with its environment. (von Bertalanffy 1968)

Source

von Bertalanffy, L. 1968. General system theory: Foundations, development, applications, Revised ed. New York, NY: Braziller.

Discussion

Open system theory considers an organism as a complex entity composed of many parts with an overall integrity, co-existing in an environment. In an open system the organisms structure is maintained, or adapts, through a continual exchange of energy and information with its environment.

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