Friendly amendment: a commentary on Doyle and Ford's proposed re-definition of 'mental model'

Lane, D. C. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6658-7041 (1999) Friendly amendment: a commentary on Doyle and Ford's proposed re-definition of 'mental model'. System Dynamics Review, 15 (2). pp. 185-194. ISSN 0883-7066 doi: 10.1002/(SICI)1099-1727(199922)15:2<185::AID-SDR166>3.0.CO;2-C

Abstract/Summary

Some amendments are proposed to a recent redefinition of the mental model concept in system dynamics. First, externalised, or articulated mental models should not be called cognitive maps; this term has a well established, alternative meaning. Second, there can be mental models of entities not yet existing beyond an individual's mind; the modelling of planned or desired systems is possible and recommended. Third, saying that mental models maintain social systems connects with some exciting research opportunities for system dynamics; however, it is probably an accidental distraction from the intended meaning of the redefinition. These minor criticisms apart, the new definition of mental model of a dynamic system is welcomed as a useful contribution to both research and practice.