Systems Thinking: Insights and Solutions to Complex Societal Challenges

A special issue of Systems (ISSN 2079-8954). This special issue belongs to the section "Systems Practice in Social Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2025) | Viewed by 15943

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Research Fellow in Systems Thinking Complex Systems Governance Group, Cranfield University, Bedford MK43 0AL, UK
Interests: application of systems thinking in environmental; public health and socio-economic systems; including hybrid systems modelling; system dynamics (SDs); probabilistic modelling and soft systems methodology (SSM); as well as project management and decision support systems; multiple-criteria decision analysis

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Today's social challenges are multidimensional, arising from our constantly changing environment and societies with interconnected subsystems. Traditional approaches often struggle to tackle such multifaceted, real-world challenges. Simplistic, linear approaches lack the capability to capture the complexities of social challenges. Systems thinking offers an effective approach to view challenges not as isolated problems, but as interconnected parts of a larger, dynamic system. In addition, applying systems thinking enables engaging a diverse range of stakeholders across different levels needed for comprehending and analysing social challenges. The complexity of these challenges demands a multi-layered response rooted in our dynamic environment and complex societies.

Systems thinking provides a powerful lens for analysing challenges with intricate, interconnected systems. The challenges faced by societies can have far-reaching impacts on individuals' personal and social lives, as well as the well-being of populations such as communities and larger groups. A systems thinking approach fosters a deeper understanding of these challenges and their interconnectedness, paving the way for collaborative resolutions that address root causes and minimise unintended consequences.

This Special Issue of Systems invites you to harness the power of systems thinking and embrace the transformative potential of stakeholder engagement in gaining insights and providing most effective solutions to complex societal challenges. We seek submissions that leverage the capacities of systems thinking to gain deeper insights and develop innovative solutions for complex societal challenges.  Submissions should demonstrate at least one hybrid or an integrated application of the systems thinking-based approach. We particularly welcome explorations of themes such as the following:

  • Climate change, energy and sustainability;
  • Urban development and local settlement;
  • Social conflicts and security at the global and local scales;
  • Democracy and social governance systems;
  • Societal education and learning systems;
  • Equity, equality, social justice and social integrity;
  • Public health and social wellbeing;
  • Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary issues related to addressing social complexities;
  • Decision-making and risk analysis;
  • Social justice, law and human rights;
  • Migration, mobilities and movement;
  • Societal culture and arts;
  • Technology, data and society;
  • Social economy;
  • Other topics related to societal challenges.

Dr. Mehdi Hafezi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Systems is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • social challenges
  • systems thinking
  • social complexities
  • public policy
  • integrated approach
  • decision-making

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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21 pages, 1969 KiB  
Article
Mapping the Complex Systems That Connects the Urban Environment to Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: A Group Model Building Study
by Ione Avila-Palencia, Leandro Garcia, Claire Cleland, Bernadette McGuinness, Joanna Mchugh Power, Amy Jayne McKnight, Conor Meehan and Ruth F. Hunter
Systems 2025, 13(7), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070606 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 103
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) to visualise how urban environment factors impact dementia and cognitive decline, and potential causal mechanisms. In Group Model Building workshops with 12 researchers, a CLD was created to identify factors contributing to cognitive [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) to visualise how urban environment factors impact dementia and cognitive decline, and potential causal mechanisms. In Group Model Building workshops with 12 researchers, a CLD was created to identify factors contributing to cognitive decline, and the dynamic interrelationships between these factors. The factors were classified in nine main themes: urban design, social environment, travel behaviours, urban design by-products, lifestyle, mental health conditions, disease/physiology, brain physiology, and cognitive decline outcomes. Five selected feedback loops illustrated some dynamics in the system. The workshops helped develop a shared language and understanding of different perspectives from an interdisciplinary team. The CLD creation was part of a comprehensive modelling approach based on experts’ knowledge which informed other research outputs such as an evidence gap map and an umbrella review, helped the identification of environmental variables for future studies and analyses, and helped to identify future possible systems-based interventions to prevent cognitive decline. The study highlights the utility of CLDs and Group Model Building workshops in interdisciplinary research projects investigating complex systems. Full article
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23 pages, 1666 KiB  
Article
Mapping Complexity: Refugee Students’ Participation and Retention in Education Through Community-Based System Dynamics
by Nidan Oyman Bozkurt
Systems 2025, 13(7), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070574 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 268
Abstract
Global refugee flows’ increasing scale and complexity pose significant challenges to national education systems. Turkey, hosting one of the largest populations of refugees and individuals under temporary protection, faces unique pressures in ensuring equitable educational access for refugee students. Addressing these challenges requires [...] Read more.
Global refugee flows’ increasing scale and complexity pose significant challenges to national education systems. Turkey, hosting one of the largest populations of refugees and individuals under temporary protection, faces unique pressures in ensuring equitable educational access for refugee students. Addressing these challenges requires a shift from linear, fragmented interventions toward holistic, systemic approaches. This study applies a Community-Based System Dynamics (CBSD) methodology to explore the systemic barriers affecting refugee students’ participation in education. Through structured Group Model Building workshops involving teachers, administrators, and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) representatives, a causal loop diagram (CLD) was collaboratively developed to capture the feedback mechanisms and interdependencies sustaining educational inequalities. Five thematic subsystems emerged: language and academic integration, economic and family dynamics, psychosocial health and trauma, institutional access and legal barriers, and social cohesion and discrimination. The analysis reveals how structural constraints, social dynamics, and individual behaviors interact to perpetuate exclusion or facilitate integration. This study identifies critical feedback loops and leverage points and provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to design sustainable, systems-informed interventions. Our findings emphasize the importance of participatory modeling in addressing complex societal challenges and contribute to advancing systems thinking in refugee education. Full article
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23 pages, 633 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Rural Tourism on Rural Collective Action: A Socio-Ecological Systems Perspective
by Yizheng Zhao, Zeqi Liu and Yahua Wang
Systems 2025, 13(7), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070566 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Rural tourism has emerged as an efficient strategy for rural revitalization while having various impacts on rural governance. Previous studies predominantly focused on the social implications of rural tourism and its impact on institutional arrangements while neglecting the influence of rural tourism on [...] Read more.
Rural tourism has emerged as an efficient strategy for rural revitalization while having various impacts on rural governance. Previous studies predominantly focused on the social implications of rural tourism and its impact on institutional arrangements while neglecting the influence of rural tourism on collective action in rural governance. This study employed a social–ecological system (SES) framework to investigate the influence of rural tourism on rural collective action, utilizing survey data from 22 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government), 178 villages, and 3282 rural households across China. The findings revealed that rural tourism exerted a positive influence on collective action, primarily through labor force reflow mechanisms. Specifically, the leadership of village cadres had a moderating role in enhancing this positive correlation. Further analysis revealed significant heterogeneity in tourism governance effects: non-plain regions and villages with medium to low economic development levels exhibited substantial improvements in collective action, whereas plain areas and economically advanced villages may manifest potentially negative impacts. Theoretically, this study contributes to elucidating tourism-driven self-governance mechanisms by applying the SES framework, thereby transcending the traditional dualistic debate between state-market and development-governance paradigms. Practically, we propose institutional designs that embed collective action mechanisms into the coupled synergistic development of rural tourism and community governance, thereby activating endogenous motivations for rural self-governance. Full article
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30 pages, 1020 KiB  
Article
Beyond the Counter: A Systemic Mapping of Nanostore Identities in Traditional, Informal Retail Through Multi-Dimensional Archetypes
by David Ernesto Salinas-Navarro, Eliseo Vilalta-Perdomo and Christopher Mejía-Argueta
Systems 2025, 13(7), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070546 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 350
Abstract
This study examines the identity of nanostores—micro, independent grocery retailers—through a systemic, stakeholder-informed lens to promote their survivability and competitiveness. Moving beyond traditional operational descriptions, it introduces a multidimensional framework that examines what nanostores do (X), how they do it (Y), and why [...] Read more.
This study examines the identity of nanostores—micro, independent grocery retailers—through a systemic, stakeholder-informed lens to promote their survivability and competitiveness. Moving beyond traditional operational descriptions, it introduces a multidimensional framework that examines what nanostores do (X), how they do it (Y), and why they matter (Z), which is complemented by the use of the TASCOI tool to produce identity statements. Based on survey data collection and a thematic analysis of nanostore stakeholder responses in Mexico City, the research categorises identity statements into six 2 × 2 matrices across four dimensions: operational, functional, relational, and adaptive. This analysis yields twenty-four archetypes that capture the diversity, complexity, and adaptability of nanostores. The findings reveal that nanostores are not a homogeneous category. They simultaneously exhibit characteristics of multiple archetypes, blending retail function, social embeddedness, and entrepreneurial adaptation. This study contributes to the nanostore and micro-enterprise literature by operationalising identity description and offers practical insights for supporting diverse shop types through context-sensitive policy and business strategies. While this study ensures internal validity and reliability through systematic coding and stakeholder feedback, it acknowledges limitations in its generalisability. Future research may build on this work through comparative studies, longitudinal tracking, and direct engagement with nanostore owners and their communities to further understand the dynamics of their identity and their resilience in evolving retail landscapes. Full article
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14 pages, 931 KiB  
Article
Using Systems Thinking to Manage Tourist-Based Nutrient Pollution in Belizean Cayes
by Daniel A. Delgado, Martha M. McAlister, W. Alex Webb, Christine Prouty, Sarina J. Ergas and Maya A. Trotz
Systems 2025, 13(7), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070544 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 161
Abstract
Tourism offers many economic benefits but can have long-lasting ecological effects when improperly managed. Tourism can cause overwhelming pressure on wastewater treatment systems, as in Belize, where some of the over 400 small islands (cayes) that were once temporary sites for fishermen have [...] Read more.
Tourism offers many economic benefits but can have long-lasting ecological effects when improperly managed. Tourism can cause overwhelming pressure on wastewater treatment systems, as in Belize, where some of the over 400 small islands (cayes) that were once temporary sites for fishermen have become popular tourist destinations. An overabundance of nitrogen, in part as a result of incomplete wastewater treatment, threatens human health and ecosystem services. The tourism industry is a complex and dynamic industry with many sectors and stakeholders with conflicting goals. In this study, a systems thinking approach was adopted to study the dynamic interactions between stakeholders and the environment at Laughing Bird Caye National Park in Belize. The project centered on nutrient discharges from the caye’s onsite wastewater treatment system. An archetype analysis approach was applied to frame potential solutions to nutrient pollution and understand potential behaviors over time. “Out of control” and “Underachievement” were identified as system archetypes; “Shifting the Burden” and ‘‘Limits to Success’’ were used to model specific cases. Based on these results, upgrading of the wastewater treatment system should be performed concurrently with investments in the user experience of the toilets, education on the vulnerability of the treatment system and ecosystem, and controls on the number of daily tourists. Full article
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27 pages, 461 KiB  
Article
Social Media Addiction and Social Skills: Implications for Societal Learning Systems, Technology, Social Economy, and Societal Challenges
by Semra Tetik, Catalin Popescu and Bülent Akkaya
Systems 2025, 13(7), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13070501 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 513
Abstract
This study aims to examine the relationship between social media addiction and social skill levels of university students from the perspective of social learning systems, systems thinking and social economy. Furthermore, the objective is to reveal how these dynamics are related to larger [...] Read more.
This study aims to examine the relationship between social media addiction and social skill levels of university students from the perspective of social learning systems, systems thinking and social economy. Furthermore, the objective is to reveal how these dynamics are related to larger challenges at the societal level. Social media addiction has emerged as an important factor shaping individuals’ social interactions, social participation and personal development. The population of the study consists of students studying at a university in Turkey, and the sample consists of 394 university students selected by convenience sampling method. The research was conducted using the relational survey model, with the data being collected through scales. The research was conducted using the relational survey model, with the data being collected through scales. The findings indicate that individuals experience a decline in social skill levels with the increase in social media use. Furthermore, an examination of the impact of demographic characteristics on this relationship utilized independent sample t-test and one-way ANOVA analyses, revealing that female students exhibited higher levels of social media addiction, while male students demonstrated higher levels of social skills. Moreover, the findings underscore the notion that social media addiction is not merely an individual problem, but rather a phenomenon that exerts influence on learning systems, social interactions and economic factors at the societal level. The impact of social media use on societal challenges and individual development can be more effectively understood through the utilization of a systems thinking approach. The current study offers significant implications for the manner in which social media addiction and social skills are shaped in the context of social learning systems, technology and the social economy and explores the social effects of social media addiction and suggests effective interventions in the fields of education, policy and social work. Systems thinking helps to understand addiction in a broad context. Full article
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26 pages, 1304 KiB  
Article
Does Digitalization Benefit Employees? A Systematic Meta-Analysis of the Digital Technology–Employee Nexus in the Workplace
by Guangping Xu, Zikang Zheng, Jinshan Zhang, Tingshu Sun and Guannan Liu
Systems 2025, 13(6), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13060409 - 24 May 2025
Viewed by 1121
Abstract
The adoption of digital technologies (DTs) in the workplace has emerged as a core driver of organizational effectiveness, and many studies have explored the intrinsic connection between the two. However, due to the wide range of subdivisions of employee performance, existing studies present [...] Read more.
The adoption of digital technologies (DTs) in the workplace has emerged as a core driver of organizational effectiveness, and many studies have explored the intrinsic connection between the two. However, due to the wide range of subdivisions of employee performance, existing studies present inconsistent research conclusions on the implementation effects of DTs and lack a systematic review of their impact on employee psychology and behavior for large sample data. To address this issue, employing a random-effects model and a psychometric meta-analysis approach based on subgroup and meta-regression analyses, this study examines 106 empirical studies, comprising 119 effect sizes. The findings reveal that DTs exhibit a “double-edged sword” effect. On the bright side, DTs significantly enhance task performance, innovation performance, employee engagement, job satisfaction, and job efficacy. On the dark side, DTs aggravate service sabotage, withdrawal behavior, job burnout, and work anxiety and have a suppressive effect on job well-being, while their influence on turnover intention is non-significant. Furthermore, this study identifies the moderating effects of industry characteristics, technology usage types, and demographic factors on the relationships between DTs and behavioral and psychological outcomes. The research conclusions help clarify the logical relationship between DTs and employee psychology and behavior and provide explanations for the differentiated research conclusions of previous studies. This study provides information for scientific management decisions regarding DTs in the workplace. Full article
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19 pages, 5739 KiB  
Article
Integrating Stakeholder Knowledge Through a Participatory Approach and Semi-Quantitative Analysis for Local Watershed Management
by Jofri Issac and Robert Newell
Systems 2025, 13(5), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13050364 - 8 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 605
Abstract
Watersheds are threatened by numerous issues, such as climate change, population growth, urban expansion, and industrial development. These issues are complex and interconnected, and effectively addressing them requires integrating the values, knowledge, and expertise of various governing bodies, local organizations, and community members, [...] Read more.
Watersheds are threatened by numerous issues, such as climate change, population growth, urban expansion, and industrial development. These issues are complex and interconnected, and effectively addressing them requires integrating the values, knowledge, and expertise of various governing bodies, local organizations, and community members, all of whom have their own viewpoints and priorities. The current study employs a participatory approach and systems lens to engage different stakeholders in the complexity of watershed issues and management approaches. Using participatory modeling and semi-quantitative scenario analysis techniques, the study identifies relationships among watershed values, challenges, and strategies as well as the dynamics of these relationships. A fuzzy cognitive map was developed, which consists of 53 nodes (i.e., 13 values, 12 challenges, and 28 strategies) and 113 connections. Biodiversity, mental health, and sense of place emerged as key values, as they exhibited high centrality values when analyzing the system, and challenges like invasive species and urban sprawl were found to exert considerable impacts on these values. Strategies such as establishing and expanding greenspace, community stewardship, and governance-based interventions were identified as critical for addressing watershed challenges and enhancing watershed values. The study identified a series of governance-based strategies that focus on resource allocation, participatory governance, and institutional collaboration to address watershed management challenges as well as a set of engagement-based strategies that focus on environmental communication and public awareness. The study demonstrates the potential that participatory modeling and semi-quantitative analysis techniques can have for integrating both tangible, measurable values and intangible, difficult-to-measure values into planning and policymaking. The research reinforces the idea that local governments play a critical role in fostering inclusive and collaborative watershed management strategies. Full article
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45 pages, 6611 KiB  
Article
Viable and Agile Model for Improving the Quality Area in an Automotive Company in Mexico
by Blanca Alhely Ceballos Chávez, José Guillermo Takeo Nava, Jesús Jaime Moreno Escobar and Oswaldo Morales Matamoros
Systems 2025, 13(5), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13050343 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 604
Abstract
The automotive industry is a key driver of global economic growth. However, traditional management approaches, relying on statistical tools and continuous improvement methodologies from the 1990s, lack the agility needed to address today’s complex challenges. This study proposes the Agile Viable Model (AVM), [...] Read more.
The automotive industry is a key driver of global economic growth. However, traditional management approaches, relying on statistical tools and continuous improvement methodologies from the 1990s, lack the agility needed to address today’s complex challenges. This study proposes the Agile Viable Model (AVM), which integrates Viable System Model (VSM), Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), and Agile Methodologies to enhance responsiveness, resilience, and strategic decision-making in quality management. Applied to the Problem Resolution Process in Quality Control, the study identified low network connectivity, confirming that the system operates under a Supercritical Regime, limiting efficiency. Analyst involved and his leader emerged as critical nodes, with 68% of interactions being conflictual, revealing the need for improved communication and collaboration. To address these challenges, agile tools such as virtual boards, product logs, and daily meetings were integrated, optimizing process flexibility. CATWOE analysis facilitated the development of conceptual models aligned with organizational objectives. The Problem Resolution Process is vital both pre- and post-sale, influencing customer satisfaction and warranty costs. Strengthening connectivity and collaboration will lead to faster problem resolution, reduced costs, and enhanced reputation. The AVM offers a structured yet adaptive solution, improving operational efficiency and decision-making in automotive quality management. Full article
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27 pages, 392 KiB  
Article
Research on the Relationship Between Structural Characteristics of Corporate Social Networks and Risk-Taking Levels: Evidence from China
by Yubin Huangfu, Tianchi Feng, Jinyu He and Zuoji Dong
Systems 2025, 13(5), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13050319 - 26 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 414
Abstract
The complex market environment places unprecedented pressure on business decision-making processes. Effectively utilizing existing social resources to establish risk prevention mechanisms and accurately assess an enterprise’s risk-taking capacity has become a core issue for corporate survival and development. This paper examines 1810 listed [...] Read more.
The complex market environment places unprecedented pressure on business decision-making processes. Effectively utilizing existing social resources to establish risk prevention mechanisms and accurately assess an enterprise’s risk-taking capacity has become a core issue for corporate survival and development. This paper examines 1810 listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-shares markets from 2010 to 2022, constructing comprehensive social networks based on multiple corporate governance entities. It investigates the influence and transmission mechanisms of corporate social networks on risk-taking levels. The results reveal that (1) enhanced corporate social network centrality, structural holes, and connectivity significantly and positively affect corporate risk-taking levels; (2) information transparency and corporate governance quality serve as important mediating mechanisms through which social networks influence corporate risk-taking; (3) significant heterogeneity exists regarding executives’ backgrounds and industry attributes—specifically, in firms with executives possessing financial backgrounds and in high-tech industry enterprises, network characteristics play a more pronounced role in promoting risk-taking. This research not only enriches the literature on factors influencing enterprise risk-taking but also provides theoretical foundations and practical insights for improving corporate risk management capabilities through optimized social network structures. Full article
39 pages, 3542 KiB  
Article
Mechanisms to Overcome the Homogenization of Rural Tourism Products and Improve the Competitiveness of Rural Tourist Destinations: A Case Study from China
by Yiqing Su, Youyan Wang and Rui Li
Systems 2025, 13(4), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13040287 - 15 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 930
Abstract
The competitiveness of rural tourism destinations holds significant implications not only for local livelihood sustainability and regional development but also for the preservation and continuity of human civilization. However, developing countries face a critical challenge where rural tourism destination competitiveness is being progressively [...] Read more.
The competitiveness of rural tourism destinations holds significant implications not only for local livelihood sustainability and regional development but also for the preservation and continuity of human civilization. However, developing countries face a critical challenge where rural tourism destination competitiveness is being progressively undermined by the pervasive homogenization of tourism products. The existing literature demonstrates limited engagement with mitigation strategies for tourism product homogenization in examinations of rural destination competitiveness. This study conceptualizes tourism product homogenization as a manifestation of the tragedy of tourism commons, proposing that self-governance can foster rural tourism destination competitive advantages through resolving such collective action dilemmas. Employing a combined IAD-SES framework, the investigation analyzes interview data from Yuanjia Village in Shaanxi Province, China. The analysis delineates how self-governance dynamically enhances and sustains rural tourism destination competitiveness through four institutional mechanisms: provision rules, appropriation rules, monitoring protocols, and sanctioning systems. Furthermore, the findings reveal that the competitiveness driven by self-governance demonstrates the capacity to align individual interests with collective societal benefits. This research contributes to tourism scholarship by identifying novel institutional determinants of tourism destination competitiveness and proposing a policy framework for addressing product homogenization challenges throughout the rural tourism area life cycle. Full article
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21 pages, 473 KiB  
Article
The Effect of the Use of Digital Technology on the Impact of Labor Outflow on Rural Collective Action: A Social–Ecological Systems Perspective
by Yiqing Su, Qiang Li and Lihua Li
Systems 2025, 13(3), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030199 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 881
Abstract
The rapid development of urbanization has led to a continuous migration of rural labor to cities, while also facilitating the widespread adoption of digital technologies in both urban and rural areas. The existing literature predominantly focuses on the negative impact of labor outflow [...] Read more.
The rapid development of urbanization has led to a continuous migration of rural labor to cities, while also facilitating the widespread adoption of digital technologies in both urban and rural areas. The existing literature predominantly focuses on the negative impact of labor outflow on rural collective action, with insufficient research addressing how to mitigate these adverse effects. By using the social–ecological systems framework, and based on survey data from 131 villages across 14 cities in Guangxi, China, this study finds that digital technologies can alleviate the negative impact of labor outflow on irrigation collective action. The relationship between labor outflow, irrigation collective action, and the use of digital technologies is particularly evident in villages located in non-plain regions, those with distinctive cultural resources, high collective economic income, and restructured planning, and where technological advancements have been promoted. The findings of this study highlight a beneficial relationship between the phenomena of labor outflow and the diffusion of digital technologies, both of which are consequences of urbanization. This suggests that issues arising from urbanization can also be addressed and resolved through urbanization itself. The conclusions offer a new perspective for understanding the interactions between variables in social–ecological systems and provide a reference for developing countries to find suitable paths for combating rural decline and achieving sustainable rural development amidst rapid urbanization. Full article
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26 pages, 2428 KiB  
Article
Digital Finance, Digital Usage Divide, and Urban–Rural Income Gap: Evidence from China
by Yanfei Xiao, Mengli Yin, Huilin Wang and Yunbo Xiang
Systems 2025, 13(3), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030145 - 21 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1596
Abstract
Digital finance can reduce the urban–rural income gap, but the digital divide may limit this effect. This study develops a theoretical framework to explore the interactions between digital finance, the digital usage gap, and income disparity. Using data from 274 Chinese cities, the [...] Read more.
Digital finance can reduce the urban–rural income gap, but the digital divide may limit this effect. This study develops a theoretical framework to explore the interactions between digital finance, the digital usage gap, and income disparity. Using data from 274 Chinese cities, the research applies a two-way fixed-effects and threshold effect model. The results indicate that disparities in digital usage not only diminish but may also distort the convergence benefits of digital finance, producing a U-shaped relationship that exhibits variability across dimensions and regions. Additionally, traditional financial systems appear to moderate this U-shaped pattern by delaying the point at which digital finance begins to widen the urban–rural income gap. However, the extent of this alleviation is influenced by the digital usage is divisive. Once digital technology adoption exceeds a threshold, the negative effect becomes positive, narrowing the urban–rural income gap. Consequently, policy initiatives should prioritize improving financial conditions in rural areas, accelerating the digital transformation of conventional finance, bolstering digital education in rural regions, and addressing the disparities in digital usage. Full article
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22 pages, 1976 KiB  
Article
Systems Thinking of Marine Policies in Promoting Environmental Law, Sustainability, and Digital Technologies: Social Challenges in Belt and Road Initiative Countries
by Xiaoping Wu and Muhammad Bilawal Khaskheli
Systems 2024, 12(10), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12100400 - 27 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2231
Abstract
The success of marine environmental regulations in terms of social challenges in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries is the main subject of this study, which compares and contrasts them with an eye toward sustainability, the integration of digital technologies, environmental law, and [...] Read more.
The success of marine environmental regulations in terms of social challenges in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries is the main subject of this study, which compares and contrasts them with an eye toward sustainability, the integration of digital technologies, environmental law, and reducing ecological degradation. Environmental solid governance is essential as BRI countries increase their marine activity, an important part of the world economy by systems thinking; the marine industry includes a broad range of operations about the ocean and its resources through social challenges to promote environmental legislation in terms of emissions in the countries participating in the BRI. This study evaluated the effects of institutional quality and technical advancements in marine policies between 2013 and 2024. This project aims to examine how various policy contexts relate to marine conservation, how well they comply with international environmental regulations, and how digital technology can improve the monitoring and implementation of policies through systems thinking. This study aims to determine common obstacles and best methods for enforcing marine policies by examining research from different BRI countries. The results deepen our understanding of how these policies can be best utilized to meet sustainable development objectives while preventing the degradation of marine ecosystems due to economic growth and business. Full article
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30 pages, 4307 KiB  
Case Report
Design Thinking in Innovation Processes: A Market Segmentation Tool in Social Networks Research
by Richard Hartman, Roman Kvasnička, Martin Čejka and Ladislav Pilař
Systems 2024, 12(10), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12100444 - 21 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3892
Abstract
This paper outlines the purposeful adaptation and utilization of the design thinking process in an innovation case involving market segmentation in social network research. Based on a case study, this paper combines the design thinking process with systems approach methods to foster innovation [...] Read more.
This paper outlines the purposeful adaptation and utilization of the design thinking process in an innovation case involving market segmentation in social network research. Based on a case study, this paper combines the design thinking process with systems approach methods to foster innovation in social network analyses. The paper details the entire process, from the initial stages to the development of a viable solution defined in the final assignment for programmers. The case study emphasizes the effective use of systems thinking tools and demonstrates the value of combining these two approaches to meet the needs of the innovation process. The paper aims to narrate the entire process and highlight critical points in a real-world case study. The focus was on the challenge of creating a market segmentation tool for researchers and marketers in the realm of social network analysis. Full article
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