In General Systems Theory, when one part of a system changes, the theory predicts:

• A. Other parts may be affected and the system seeks equilibrium
• B. Change is localized with no effects
• C. The system collapses entirely
• D. There is no pattern to changes

Answer: (C)

In General Systems Theory, systems are made up of interdependent parts. A change in one part sets off ripple effects through the whole system because the components are connected and continually influence one another. The system responds to such perturbations by adjusting, with the aim of restoring balance or reaching a new equilibrium. So, changes aren’t confined to a single piece; they propagate and the system reorganizes to maintain stability.

The idea that change is localized with no effects doesn’t fit a systems view, since interdependence means effects are felt elsewhere. The notion that the system collapses entirely exaggerates the typical response; systems adapt rather than implode. And claiming there’s no pattern to changes ignores the predictable ways interconnections produce cascading adjustments through feedback loops.