EigenForm

Abstract

Purpose

Discusses the notion of eigenform as explicated by Heinz von Foerster wherein an object is seen to be a token for those behaviors that lend the object its apparent stability in a changing world.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes von Foerster's model for eigenforms and recursions and puts this model in the context of mathematical recursions, fractals, set theory, logic, quantum mechanics, the lambda calculus of Church and Curry, and the categorical framework of fixed points of Lawvere.

Findings

Determines that iterating a transformation upon itself is seen to be a key to understanding the nature of objects and the relationship of an observer and the apparent world of the observer.

Originality/value

Contemplates the concept of recursion in the context of second‐order cybernetics.

Citation

Kauffman, L.H. (2005), "EigenForm", Kybernetes, Vol. 34 No. 1/2, pp. 129-150. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920510575780