Article

Systems thinking in, and for, public health: a call for a broader path

Details

Citation

Gadsby EW & Wilding H (2024) Systems thinking in, and for, public health: a call for a broader path. Health Promotion International, 39 (4). https://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/daae086

Abstract
Systems thinking has been recognized as valuable to public health policy, research and practice. Commentators and reviews have highlighted that there is still much to be done to embrace its potential. Here, we highlight that much of the discourse about systems thinking in, and for, public health supports the pursuit of a narrow path and is limited with respect to the lineages of Systems that are embraced. We invite readers to see the potential of systems thinking in pursuing a broader path which is motivated by a concern for alleviating health inequalities. This does not replace the narrow path but encompasses it. It prompts different considerations with respect to the nature of the transformation, partnership working and legitimacy. It also invites a different way of engaging with systems thinking and different ways of conceptualizing and managing change. The broad path both requires, and helps enhance, new ways of doing, relating, organizing, knowing and framing which are vital for the future of public health as a global concern.

Journal
Health Promotion International: Volume 39, Issue 4

StatusPublished
Publication date31/08/2024
Publication date online31/08/2024
Date accepted by journal05/08/2024
PublisherOxford University Press (OUP)
ISSN0957-4824
eISSN1460-2245

People (1)

Dr Erica Gadsby

Dr Erica Gadsby

Associate Professor, Health Sciences Stirling