Seven steps in the general evolution of systems. An application to the seven levels of existence by C.W. Graves

In the paper we present a transdisciplinary metamodel, or language, to understand the general dynamics of self organizing systems. This conceptual tool can be used to interpret the emergence, evolution and functioning of natural systems of different sorts: physical, biological, ecological, social or cognitive. We show that the evolution of systems from their emergence, through their possible complexification, toward increased autonomy, goes through several steps which can be recognized in the evolution of many systems. We will then show an example of such a succession: the seven value systems, or worldviews, or levels of existence, proposed by the psychologist C.W.Graves.