Planning for Human Systems: Essays in Honor of Russell L. Ackoff

by Jean-Marc Choukroun, Roberta M. Snow

Overview

Russell Lincoln Ackoff is a recognized authority in the field of operations research and systems theory. This volume is divided into four major sections. The first deals with Ackoff's intellectual roots in the American pragmatic tradition. The second section demonstrates how systems thinkers have incorporated Ackoff's ideas in their own work. The third section shows the influence of Ackoff's thinking on decision making and problem solving, while the final section offers a reassessment of current approaches to systems planning on the national level. In addition, the editors have provided a general introduction, as well as introductions to each of the five sections. Planning for Human Systems will be of interest to students and scholars of operations research and systems theory.

Contributors: Michel Chevalier, C. West Churchman, Thomas A. Cowan, Eric Trist, Ian I. Mitroff, Stafford Beer, and Ignacy Sachs.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780812231281
Publisher:	University of Pennsylvania Press, Inc.
Publication date:	05/29/1992
Pages:	448
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

Jean-Marc Choukroun holds Ph.D., M.A. and M.C.P. degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and is a graduate engineer from the Ecole Polytechnique of Paris, France.

Editorial Reviews

The third edition (1st ed. was 1970) of a standard reference/handbook. Thomas (gardens consultant, the National Trust) treats perennials and grasses, climbers, and shrubs suitable as ground covers, with consideration of selected conifers and ferns. Thomas is not only world famous, but he loves his work, and the love shows. A festschrift honoring a distinguished authority, prolific writer, and influential consultant to many businesses in the field of operations research and systems theory. Twenty-nine essays discuss his relationship with Anheuser-Busch, his intellectual roots in the American pragmatic tradition, the impact of his ideas, and current approaches to systems planning on the national level. Published by the Busch Center of the Wharton School of the U. of Pennsylvania, and distributed by the U. of Penn. Press. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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