While it has become fashionable in the arena of international health to think about health systems, the theoretical underpinning of Niklas Luhmann's vast and productive theory has been given too little consideration in the field. It is rich in concepts that can facilitate a fuller understanding of what health systems are. João Costa applies these concepts and shows the analytical possibilities they open up. He argues concisely how Luhmann's Social Systems Theory offers an integrated theoretical body as well as a consistent articulation of concepts that can lay the groundwork for a vastly improved health systems thinking.
Price: $35.00
Pages: 198
Publisher: transcript publishing
Imprint: transcript publishing
Publication Date:
28 March 2023
Trim Size: 8.86 X 5.83 in
ISBN: 9783837666939
Format: Paperback
João Costa is a public health specialist and health economist. He has a doctorate degree from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, where he also worked as research fellow. He is also an independent consultant and associate researcher of the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute. He has approximately 45 years of working experience in development projects in several countries, always focusing on strengthening health systems. His international profile includes project management, research, teaching, consultancy, and high-level advisory positions – working with academic institutions, consultancy companies, international development banks, international development agencies, and others.
Frontmatter 1
Contents 5
Presentation 7
Introduction 11
Chapter 1 - Niklas Luhmann's Social Systems Theory - Concepts 27
Chapter 2 - General application of the theory 53
Chapter 3 - Health Systems - Methodological issues 63
Chapter 4 - Health Systems Thinking and Social Systems Theory 69
Chapter 5 - Health Systems Thinking Tools and Social Systems Theory 81
Chapter 6 - Health Systems Strengthening and Systems Theory 107
Chapter 7 - Health Organizations and Poly-contexturality 121
Chapter 8 - Critics' Views about Luhmann's Theory 129
Chapter 9 - Prospects and Examples 139
Final Remarks - Science or Technology 165
References 171
Annex - Advanced Topics 181
