holarchy: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

A hierarchy typically implies a chain of command or a ranking of importance from top to bottom. A holarchy is a specific type of hierarchy where each level ('holon') is a coherent, self-regulating whole in its own right, while simultaneously acting as a constituent part of the larger whole above it. The key is the dual nature of each entity.

The term was coined by the author and philosopher Arthur Koestler in his 1967 book 'The Ghost in the Machine'. He derived it from the Greek 'holos' (whole) and 'arche' (rule or governing principle).

A classic example is a biological system: A cell is a whole, self-sustaining unit, but it is also a part of a tissue. The tissue is a whole entity but is part of an organ. The organ is a whole but part of an organism. Each level has its own integrity while serving the larger system.

No, they are related but distinct. 'Holacracy' is a specific, trademarked system of organisational governance that distributes authority. It is *inspired by* holarchical principles (self-organising teams within a larger company). 'Holarchy' is the broader, abstract concept of nested whole/part systems applicable to many fields beyond management.

A system where each entity (a 'holon') is simultaneously a whole and a part of a larger whole.

Holarchy is usually specialised, academic, philosophical, systems theory. in register.

Holarchy: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɒl.ɑː.ki/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhoʊ.lɑːr.ki/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.