The secret transcendence of autopoietic systems. The problem of temporality in Luhmann's systems theory

Journal/Book: Z Soz. 1998; 27: Postfach 30 03 66, D-70443 Stuttgart, Germany. Ferdinand Enke Verlag. 404+.

Abstract: One of the central intentions of Luhmann's autopoietic systems theory (APST) is the definitive break with philosophical traditions of argumentation which refer to the category of subjectivity. This stands in clear contrast to the fact that self-referential immanence is one of the main formal principles of the classical philosophic theories of subjectivity as well as APST. Tn addition, the radical temporalization of the systems concept, although an essential characteristics of APST, undermines this principle of immanence at the same time. Luhmann's theory of time implies a moment of an irreducable transcendence and Weltverhaftetheit of psychic, organic, and social systems. This leads to an internal contradiction which cannot be resolved by the categorical means of a constructivistic paradigm. The problem shows striking analogies to the dilemma of the classical theory of the transcendental subject, analyzed in the context of phenomenological, theories of time (Husserl, Heidegger, and Merleau-Ponty).

Note: Article Kastl JM, Univ Tubingen, Inst Soziol, Wilhelmstr 36, D-72074 Tubingen, GERMANY

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