Denksystem

Denksystem (thinking system) refers to a structured approach to reasoning used by a person or organization. It encompasses the beliefs, rules, methods, and heuristics that guide how information is interpreted, problems are framed, and decisions are made. A Denksystem can be explicit, meaning it is described and taught, or tacit, meaning it operates implicitly through habits and training. It can be domain-general or domain-specific, affecting a wide range of tasks or only a particular area.

Elements commonly included are underlying assumptions, conceptual models, cognitive strategies, evidentiary criteria, and preferred reflection and checking procedures. Denksysteme can be explicit or tacit, domain-general or domain-specific.

Development and use: They are shaped by education, culture, experience, and professional norms. In education and business, Denksysteme are analyzed and sometimes redesigned to improve problem solving and decision quality; for example, adopting a systematic, evidence-based approach can be considered a deliberate Denksystem.

Examples: A logical-deductive Denksystem emphasizes rules of inference; a probabilistic Denksystem emphasizes updating beliefs with data; a heuristic-based Denksystem uses mental shortcuts.

Evaluation: Benefits include consistency and efficiency; drawbacks include rigidity and susceptibility to bias if the system is flawed. Practices like critical thinking, exposure to multiple viewpoints, and metacognition help maintain flexibility.

Relation to other concepts: Denksysteme are related to mental models, schemas, and cognitive frameworks. They are sometimes used as a synonym for a mental model in education, but often denote a more explicit system of thinking.

See also: mental model, schema, problem solving, decision theory, cognitive biases.