Abstract for: Using Soft Systems Methodology and System Dynamics in Mining Operations in Peru: Initial Findings for a Boundary Critique

We introduce the use of Ulrich’s Critical Systems Heuristics to organize second order critical reflexion in systems practice and action research. The paper draws on critical systems thinking and illustrates its application in the context of an intervention using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and Systems Dynamics (SDy) to evaluate the environmental impact of mining operations in southern Peru. The paper argues that by combining some of SDy and SSM stages, much can be gained in a systemic intervention to tackle complex social situations. We sketch the context in which the systemic intervention was carried out reporting on the initial SSM and SDy stages to outline a 2nd order boundary critique tool for systemic interventions.