系统思维是一种途径协助人们从宏观角度了解系统，包括了整体结构、模式及周期。相对于笛卡儿及其他人的还原论、哲学分析，它倾向整体主义。因为它关心的是整体及其各部分之间的关系。

Systems thinking is the process of understanding how those things which may be regarded as systems influence one another within a complete entity, or larger system. In nature, systems thinking examples include ecosystems in which various elements such as air, water, movement, plants, and animals work together to survive or perish. In organizations, systems consist of people, structures, and processes that work together to make an organization "healthy" or "unhealthy".