Luhmann-Handbuch

In vielen Disziplinen kontrovers diskutiert, prägt Niklas Luhmanns Systemtheorie die intellektuellen Debatten weit über den universitären Bereich hinaus. Neben einem Einblick in die Biografie Luhmanns zeichnet das Handbuch die Grundlagen seines Denkens und verschiedene Theoriestränge nach. Darunter: Evolutions-, Kommunikations-, Medien- und Gesellschaftstheorie. Detailliert werden einzelne Werke und Werkgruppen besprochen. Weitere Kapitel erklären zentrale Begriffe der Systemtheorie, wie Autopoiesis, Code, Komplexität, System u. v. a.Over the last 40 years, Luhmann's systems theory has become one of the most influential and hotly debated scientific paradigms. It represents one of the most prominent theoretical approaches, playing a defining role in intellectual debates far beyond the academic world. Comprising approximately 400 pages, this handbook offers a comprehensive overview over Luhmann's work and impact and illustrates how systems theory has been received and advanced in various disciplines (from philosophy over literary and media sciences up to economics). After the first, bio-bibliographical chapter, the handbook goes on to outline the foundations of Luhmann's reasoning and portrays several lines of theory (such as the theory of evolution, communication theory, media theory, and social theory). Additional chapters explain key systems theory concepts (such as autopoiesis, code, observation, complexity and system), discuss important correlations with other thinkers and positions, and expound Luhmann's individual works. The final chapter deals with criticism of Luhmann's systems theory.