Homeostasis

Homeostasis or homoeostasis is the property of a system in which a variable (for example, the concentration of a substance in solution, or its temperature) is actively regulated to remain very nearly constant.

Quotes

• We have argued at some length in another place that the mechanical equilibrium model and the organismic homeostasis models of society that have underlain most modern sociological theory have outlived their usefulness
  • Walter F. Buckley (1968) "Society as a complex adaptive system" p. 490.

• The homeostatic principle does not apply literally to the functioning of all complex living systems, in that in counteracting entropy they move toward growth and expansion.
  • Daniel Katz & Robert L. Kahn (1966), The Social Psychology of Organizations. p. 23

• The well-known physiologist Walter Cannon ... was a pioneer in the investigation of the relationship between emotions and physiological responses, and is perhaps best known for having coined the term homeostasis.
  • Steve M. Jex, ‎Thomas W. Britt (2002). Organizational Psychology. p. 180

• Grossly oversimplifying, the following models of mind can be discerned in the welter of contemporary psychological theorizing. The first model of the mind is mind as an energy system. This is represented by early psychoanalytical theory, particularly by its dynamic and economic versions. It has also represented by ecologists (Tinbergen, 1951) and by drive reduction theorists. In this model, the stress is on the concept of motivation, conceived as drive. Common to the theories that regard mind as an energy system are the ideas of homeostasis and closed system. The metaphor of energy is often used by motivation theorists who view drives, instincts, and needs as types of forces.
  • Thaddus E. Weckowicz (1984) Models of Mental Illness, p. 102

See also

• Equilibrium
• System theory