Contradictions That Should Not Be Solved
Abstract
The standard relationship between methodology and contradiction is one of resolution: a contradiction is a problem, and the goal of a method is to eliminate it. This note argues that at the architectural level of complex systems, this relationship frequently breaks down. Some contradictions at this level are not problems to eliminate — they are the structural tensions that make the system possible. We introduce a diagnostic framework distinguishing three structurally different types of contradiction and argue that some contradictions must be held rather than resolved.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Systems Engineering Methodologies and Applications
Complex Systems and Decision Making
Complex Systems and Dynamics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Publication date
- 15 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Preprint