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Polytely (from
Greek roots ''poly-'' and ''-tel-'' meaning "many goals") comprises complex
problem-solving situations characterized by the presence of multiple simultaneous goals.
[Funke 2001, p.72.] These goals may be contradictory or otherwise conflict with one another, requiring prioritisation of desired outcomes.
[Funke 2001, p.72.]
Polytely is a feature of complex problem-solving that adds difficulty to finding an optimum solution. Funke describes polytely as a feature "not... inherent in a system, but
eferringto certain decisions of the experimenter", especially decisions relating to what goals are to be followed in solving the problem.
[Funke 2001, p.73.] In the complex problem of nuclear waste disposal, Flüeler cites both trust between
states (as a factor in
nuclear proliferation: "Some states disarm whilst others re-arm – both do it for the sake of our planet's peace"), and safe and
sustainable disposal of nuclear waste as situations where considering in terms of polytely helps elaborate and then balance important but conflicting goals.
[Flüeler 2006, p. 138—139]
See also
Notes
References
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External links
Decision Making for Complex Socio-technical SystemsDynamic systems as tools for analysing human judgement*
ttps://idea.library.drexel.edu/islandora/object/idea%3A2671 Complex Problem Solving: Identity Matching Based on Social Contextual InformationA study of how individuals solve complex and ill-structured problemsThe role of emotions in complex problem-solvingProblem solving: its originComplex Problem Solving
{{Systems
Systems theory