Dealing with complexity by using multilevel system boundary models.

Increasingly, researchers and practitioners operate in complex systems difficult to comprehend. In them, the multiplicity of perspectives, elements and relationships operating on multiple levels makes the practice of systems thinking and boundary critique considerably difficult. Drawing upon boundary critique and hierarchy theory, this paper presents ways of thinking in terms of multilevel boundary judgements models useful for addressing the aforementioned problem in all fields of study. A real example of the use of these models is presented. This paper also discusses how thinking in terms of multiple levels of boundary judgements is important to better deal with values and moral frameworks and to promote critical reflexivity in systemic interventions, while escaping the dangers of reductionism. Furthermore, a systemic way of exploring the role of moral frameworks in systems practice is discussed, contributing with new concepts useful to develop a deeper understanding of ethical issues in systems practice.