Isomorphic thinking is a way to look at the world, a way to analyze complicated problems. This is a way of using the natural phenomenon of complex systems isomorphisms. What is an Isomorphism? The idea of isomorphism originated in mathematics, defined as an identical structure shared between two different types of objects. In the systems sciences, isomorphism is the activity of identifying then mapping common system structures between two different systems. For example, the governments of cities and counties are often very similar, they have a certain level of isomorphism, with a head (mayor/commissioner), a board (council/commission), and many similar departments. To apply the idea of isomorphism, or use isomorphic thinking, we take a problem and look for an isomorphic system. This will usually mean finding another system with similar structure, but being better developed and therefore forming a natural model for the problem system. Isomorphisms are natural in human thinking, they are a type of pattern between two objects, and the brain is a pattern-recognizing organism. Isomorphisms can be used to find new models, structures, processes, or just new ways to understand the problem of the target system.
For example, isomorphism is to take a poorly understood problem, find similar problems in better understood domains, and identify common system elements between them. An example would be the idea of Neils Bohr that the solar system might be a reasonable model for understanding the structure of the Atom.
Isomorphism turns out to be incredibly helpful in developing unprecedented complex systems. Or in solving poorly understood problems in complex domains. Isomorphic thinking can be developed as a useful design skill.
For example, isomorphism is to take a poorly understood problem, find similar problems in better understood domains, and identify common system elements between them. An example would be the idea of Neils Bohr that the solar system might be a reasonable model for understanding the structure of the Atom.
Isomorphism turns out to be incredibly helpful in developing unprecedented complex systems. Or in solving poorly understood problems in complex domains. Isomorphic thinking can be developed as a useful design skill.