Systems Thinking for Social Change

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Donors, nonprofit leaders, and policymakers often aim to improve social conditions but frequently fall short of their goals. Their well-intentioned solutions can lead to unintended consequences, such as temporary shelters that exacerbate homelessness or food aid that increases starvation. This book explores how conventional thinking applied to complex social issues can perpetuate the very problems we seek to solve. However, it also offers a pathway to thinking differently for better outcomes. By understanding systems thinking, readers can enhance their contributions to society. The text provides practical guidance on incorporating systems thinking into problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning without requiring technical expertise. David Stroh, a leader in systems thinking, shares techniques that have successfully addressed issues like homelessness, public health, education, child welfare, and criminal justice reform. This accessible guide empowers readers to grasp systems concepts and apply them effectively to achieve desired results.