Systems Engineering as Engineering Philosophy

Abstract

Studies into various aspects of systems engineering have emerged to broaden understanding of the discipline. However, consensus on the concept and purview of the field remains elusive. Viewing systems engineering as engineering philosophy can provide insight into these differing perspectives. This chapter discusses engineering philosophy and provides a brief historical overview of systems engineering. Some concepts in system engineering such as system, complexity and emergence amongst others are discussed. Systemic thinking as a precursory problem-solving strategy is highlighted. Thereafter, the various representations of systems engineering are used as examples of reflections within systems engineering, which can be characterised as engineering philosophy as distinguished from philosophy of engineering. Whilst the philosophy of engineering assesses engineering from the outside with the aid of concepts and methodologies of the discipline of philosophy, engineering philosophy involves philosophical thinking of engineering from within that sets a paradigm for understanding the world.