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1. Introduction

Ackoff and Emery (1972, p. 124) formulated the shortest systematic approach to our topic. They observed that two adaptive systems A and B have just four options to adapt to each other:

  • A may force B to adapt to A.

  • A may adapt to B.

  • Neither A nor B may adapt to the other.

  • A and B may adapt to each other.

Nechansky (2007) came to similar categories analyzing how two feedback systems, and generally two goal-orientated systems, A and B can pursue their goals:

  • A may pursue own goals against B.

  • A may yield to the goals of B.

  • A and B may realize own goal-values independently, without interaction.

  • A and B may cooperate toward mutual goals.

Nechansky (2007) called these possibilities the “four modes of coexistence”: (1) conflict, (2) hierarchy, (3) independence in a niche and (4) cooperation.

Now in this paper we want, first, to review the cybernetic conditions leading to these four modes. Then we will try to show how they apply to human interactions:

  • we will make explicit the act of goal-setting, i.e. which goal-values individuals can set before they start an interaction; and

  • based on that we will develop an interaction matrix showing how these preceding acts of goal-setting and the related goal-orientated actions determine the following interactions and the resulting modes of coexistence.

Finally we will outline how the interaction matrix can be applied to the interactions of larger social units.

2. The factors determining the four modes of coexistence

Let us start with an example illustrating the factors causing the modes of coexistence.

We suppose there are two persons A and B in a cold room, having say 10°C. Both agree that this is uncomfortable, but they set different goal-values for what they consider comfortable: A would like to have just a fresh 18°C, while B would like cozy 25°C.

Now what will happen: perceiving equal deviations from their goal-values A and B will spontaneously and temporarily cooperate to heat the room till it has 18°C (here A’s action A1 and B’s action B1 aim in the same direction; see Figures 1 and 2). Yet when this goal-value of A is reached, then A wants to stop heating and start cooling...

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