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Studies aspects of Heinz von Foerster's work that are of particular importance for cognitive science and artificial intelligence.

Kohonen's self‐organizing map is presented as one method that may be useful in implementing some of Von Foerster's ideas. The main foci are the distinction between trivial and non‐trivial machines and the concept of constructive learning. The self‐organizing map is also presented as a potential tool for alleviating the participatory crisis discussed by von Foerster.

The participatory crisis in society is discussed and the concept of change is handled within the framework of information systems development.

Considers the importance of considering change in information systems development.

The paper serves as an introduction to the special issue on Heinz von Foerster. Major episodes of his life are sketched and related to his scientific convictions regarding transdisciplinary research and radical constructivist. In the second part the contributions to the issue are summarized. Finally, the relevance of Foerster's work is discussed.

The arguments are based on the scientific literature.

Foerster argued against reductionist science and in favor of transdisciplinary research in order to trigger further scientific developments.

By using transdiciplinary and choosing the constructivist perspective, science will increase its productivity. This should be reflected in science policy.

By pointing at the variety of his scientific output and his influence on many colleagues and students, the paper is in support of Foerster's non‐reductionist worldview.