These equations may be relatively simple, using standard operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and sometimes exponents, or more complex involving functions and parameters which moderate how variables interact. Stocks take numerical values, and flows are defined by equations which can be affected by any number of other factors in the model. A flow is the rate of change in a stock (usually represented by a differential equation). Stocks are any entity which accumulates or depletes over time. More concretely, a System Dynamics model is made up of stocks and flows, and the factors which affect flows. If we unpick and decode this a little, we can say it (i) is typically implemented on a computer using software to carry out the calculations we put into the model, (ii) allows us to prod and poke a model to run different scenarios and look at different outputs for comparison, and (iii) is normally used to look at systems which are dynamic or moreover have some interesting dynamic properties. The short but jargon-filled definition of System Dynamics (many variants of which you will find in the literature) is ‘a computer simulation method for analysis of complex dynamic systems’. Perhaps at a cost of System Dynamics itself, it also raised much discussion and thought on the different ways to model complex systems. Ultimately, though much energy was used on repetitive debates around Limits to Growth, and the model itself was criticised heavily, it likely did serve its purpose well-to raise awareness of an issue, and to facilitate and support more detailed thinking and strategic insight on it. On a deeper level, however, discerning model observers and users can see the sensitivity of model results to an array of assumptions, and how the model can be used and abused by those wishing to use it to make their own arguments. As a simulation method which produces results over time (results which can be interpreted as forecasts, or even predictions-more on this later), it can create a black-box, magic-like quality the lure of the simulated world convincing people of its truth. This high-profile example reflects something more fundamental about the method on a surface level, System Dynamics models are intuitive and often convincing.
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