In complex systems, such as the European food system, solving problems
which lead to biophysical and humanitarian impacts requires a new approach.
When not considering the problems within the context of the system they
exist in, attempts to fix the problems often lead to unintended and unforeseen
consequences.
In this guidebook, we first explain the basics of systems theory. Common
patterns we see in system dynamics, which perpetuate problems, are often
termed ‘system archetypes’. As a starting point, some of these archetypes are
introduced with examples from the food system, to explain why it is difficult to
break free of destructive cycles of behaviour.
