What does General Systems Theory propose regarding living systems?

General Systems Theory fundamentally emphasizes that a system operates as a cohesive whole, and that its properties and functions cannot be fully understood by merely examining its individual components in isolation. This theory posits that when you look at a living system, such as an ecosystem or a family, the interactions and relationships among the parts create effects and dynamics that transcend what each part could achieve on its own. In essence, the whole system exhibits properties and behaviors that are not present in any single part.

This understanding invites a holistic perspective, where the configuration, relationships, and interactions within the system play a critical role in defining its nature and function. Therefore, in a living system, the synergy derived from these interactions results in a complex entity that is "more than the sum of its parts." It encapsulates how dynamic interactions and feedback loops contribute to the overall characteristics and behaviors of the system as a whole, recognizing that the interplay between components can produce outcomes that might be unexpected if only the components were considered independently.