Systems Theory

Hierarchical Ordering

- Systems theory is broken into two types of hierarchical ordering, subsystems, and supersystems. Most people consider hierarchy as the straightforward lines of authority represented by a chart. However, hierarchical ordering within systems, means that we can look at a larger system and identify all of it's individual parts. 

Subsystem

-Our government can be broken into many subsystems. An example of subsystem's would be state, counties, and cities, and each having their own government system. When a small county or region has an issue, they handle it by giving the local residents power to vote. 

-Below is a video of 2012 Kentucky election on hunting and fishing. This is an example of how a subsytem (small city) has an impact on the over all system (government).  

Supersystems

-President Obama's health care reform is an example of a supersystem. Obama is changing the healthcare industry as a whole by implementing new rules and regulations. A supersystem is composed of the "larger picture". Unlike the vote for Kentucky hunting and fishing rights; where only Kentuckians are affected, the whole United States is being altered by the new healthcare reform.