Lapp, Christian, Günther Ossimitz (2008): Proposing a Classification of Feedback Loops in Four Types. Scientific Inquiry 8,1
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Abstract
With this paper a differentiation of feedback loops in four types is proposed. Refining the common twofold classification in “positive” (or “escalating”) and “negative” (or “balancing”) the four proposed types are “enhancing” (indicated by a “+” in causal loop diagrams), “excluding” (“x”), “stabilizing” (“-”) and “swinging” (“~”). In this way it is differed between escalating loops in which all components grow (or fall) together (“enhancing”) and those in which some components grow while others fall (“excluding”). Negative loops with time delays are called “swinging” as they typically loose their ability to balance and rather show oscillating or even chaotic behavior. The relevance of the proposed nomination is shown on examples from population dynamics and traffic as well as on the “Shifting the Burden”-Archetype and the Pig Cycle.
Keywords: causal loop diagram, feedback loop, classification, nomination, time delay, cooperation, competition, predator-prey, shifting the burden, pig cycle
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