The value of a systems approach for advancing the co‐evolution of ethnic cultures and society

Abstract

Traditional ethnic cultures have difficulties co-evolving with their rapidly changing environments, especially the larger societal environment. Often cultural systems are unable to assist members in coping with accelerating technological, social and political changes. Systems inquiry offers ways and means to address this predicament. This article explores the value of applying a systems approach to the creation of institutional arrangements by which ethnic groups might better develop their cultural systems in order to create mutually beneficial co-evolutionary relationships with the societal environment.