Cybernetics

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Cybernetics is the transdisciplinary study of circular processes such as feedback systems where outputs are also inputs. It is concerned with general principles that are relevant across multiple contexts,^[1] including in ecological, technological, biological, cognitive and social systems and also in practical activities such as designing,^[2] learning, and managing.

The field is named after an example of circular causal feedback—that of steering a ship (the ancient Greek κυβερνήτης (kybernḗtēs) means "helmsperson"). In steering a ship, the helmsperson adjusts their steering in continual response to the effect it is observed as having, forming a feedback loop through which a steady course can be maintained in a changing environment, responding to disturbances from cross winds and tide.^[3][4]

Cybernetics' transdisciplinary^[5] character has meant that it intersects with a number of other fields, leading to it having both wide influence and diverse interpretations.