Click the link to see Stefan’s pdf in the post
For over 20 years, I’ve been trying to make systems thinking more visible and impactful in German-speaking countries — in organizations, education, and leadership. Honestly, it’s not a job marked by quick wins. It often feels like gardening in a climate not yet suited for this particular plant. The fruit ripens slowly — if at all. But I keep going, because I deeply believe: without systems thinking, any transformation remains superficial.
Two years ago, I started a personal experiment: two smartphones, two numbers, one person. One phone engages only with German-language content, the other with English-language content. (Interestingly, both algorithms now merge into one feed on my desktop — like a digital biotope.) The contrast is striking: there are significant differences in tone, topics, ethical framing, solution-orientation, and how theory translates into practice. And spoiler alert: systems thinking is practically invisible in German discourse. That’s why I’ve collected and condensed a few reflections — short, pointed, and ready for discussion.
💬 What do you think? What does it take for you to think, lead, and act systemically?
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Stefan Knabe https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-knabe-79a8361a6/
Systems Community of Inquiry 