Two Theorems on Ceteris Paribus in the Analysis of Dynamic Systems *

Two Theorems on Ceteris Paribus in the Analysis of Dynamic Systems

American Political Science Review ◽

10.2307/1953100 ◽

1962 ◽

Vol 56 (1) ◽

pp. 108-113 ◽

Cited By ~ 11

Author(s):

Franklin M. Fisher ◽

Albert Ando

Keyword(s):

Social Science ◽

Dynamic Systems ◽

Dynamic Properties ◽

Group Behavior ◽

Real Problem ◽

Ceteris Paribus ◽

Social Science Theory ◽

Science Theory ◽

The World ◽

Group Members

Analysis of the dynamic properties of two or more interrelated systems is a recurrent problem in social science theory. A particular problem frequently arises (although it often goes unrecognized) in assessing the validity of an analysis of a system, some variables of which are causally related to other variables, which latter, in turn, are either not explicitly taken into account or are assumed constant. Examples are easy to find: economists may study the behavior of a single country's economy with only secondary regard for the rest of the world; studies of group behavior may pay only secondary attention to the other roles played by the group members in other contexts; two more examples are worked out below and others may be found in the works about to be cited. Indeed, in a larger sense, the division of social science itself (or of natural science, for that matter) into separate disciplines is an example, for the variables taken as given by one discipline are the very subject matter of another and vice versa. In all these examples, the very real problem is present that if variables taken as given are causally affected by the variables of the system being analyzed, or if variables assumed not to affect that system actually do affect it, the results of the analysis may have little relevance for the study of real problems.

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Phase behavior of cationic and anionic surfactants at low concentrations

Proceedings, annual meeting, Electron Microscopy Society of America ◽

10.1017/s0424820100123878 ◽

1992 ◽

Vol 50 (1) ◽

pp. 694-695

Author(s):

E. Naranjo

Keyword(s):

Phase Behavior ◽

Structural Characterization ◽

Dynamic Systems ◽

Anionic Surfactants ◽

Intermolecular Forces ◽

Stable Form ◽

Surfactant Mixtures ◽

Low Concentrations ◽

Cationic And Anionic Surfactants ◽

General Method

Equilibrium vesicles, those which are the stable form of aggregation and form spontaneously on mixing surfactant with water, have never been demonstrated in single component bilayers and only rarely in lipid or surfactant mixtures. Designing a simple and general method for producing spontaneous and stable vesicles depends on a better understanding of the thermodynamics of aggregation, the interplay of intermolecular forces in surfactants, and an efficient way of doing structural characterization in dynamic systems.

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Improving Feeding Outcomes in the NICU: Moving From Volume-Driven to Infant-Driven Feeding

Perspectives on Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia) ◽

10.1044/sasd19.3.68 ◽

2010 ◽

Vol 19 (3) ◽

pp. 68-74 ◽

Cited By ~ 9

Author(s):

Catherine S. Shaker

Keyword(s):

Intensive Care Unit ◽

Dynamic Systems ◽

Neonatal Intensive Care ◽

Well Being ◽

Dynamic Systems Theory ◽

Feeding Problems ◽

Care Giving ◽

Extremely Preterm ◽

Extremely Preterm Infants

Current research on feeding outcomes after discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) suggests a need to critically look at the early underpinnings of persistent feeding problems in extremely preterm infants. Concepts of dynamic systems theory and sensitive care-giving are used to describe the specialized needs of this fragile population related to the emergence of safe and successful feeding and swallowing. Focusing on the infant as a co-regulatory partner and embracing a framework of an infant-driven, versus volume-driven, feeding approach are highlighted as best supporting the preterm infant's developmental strivings and long-term well-being.

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A Dynamic Systems Approach to Personality

European Psychologist ◽

10.1027//1016-9040.6.3.172 ◽

2001 ◽

Vol 6 (3) ◽

pp. 172-176 ◽

Cited By ~ 14

Author(s):

Lawrence A. Pervin

Keyword(s):

Dynamic Systems ◽

Systems Approach ◽

Biological Processes ◽

Recent Advances ◽

Dynamic View ◽

The Future ◽

History Of

David Magnusson has been the most articulate spokesperson for a holistic, systems approach to personality. This paper considers three concepts relevant to a dynamic systems approach to personality: dynamics, systems, and levels. Some of the history of a dynamic view is traced, leading to an emphasis on the need for stressing the interplay among goals. Concepts such as multidetermination, equipotentiality, and equifinality are shown to be important aspects of a systems approach. Finally, attention is drawn to the question of levels of description, analysis, and explanation in a theory of personality. The importance of the issue is emphasized in relation to recent advances in our understanding of biological processes. Integrating such advances into a theory of personality while avoiding the danger of reductionism is a challenge for the future.

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