Difference between revisions 2407582 and 7889519 on enwiki

'''First Order Control''' is when a desired result is attempted by adjusting a scalar (first order) control.  Such mechanisms, where first order change successfully produces desired results, are called first order mechanisms.  First order control is contrasted to [[Higher Order Control]].

While many simple mechanisms are completely first order, most complex mechanisms are only first order within a range of operation.

(contracted; show full) to exactly zero could require a fundamental change in every aspect of the society's organization that could not be afforded and would have many other implications. The implication would be that it is better to simply accept a certain amount of murder as inevitable; but such a position may in turn be seen as non-viable politically, causing politicians to espouse actions or goals that are functionally impossible.

First order social mechanisms based on false assumptions are even more problematic.


:'''As a===A hypothetical example''' ===
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Houses are being burglarized at night. It is <i>falsely</i> assumed that the crimes are being committed by adolescents. A first order solution is imposed: a curfew restricting adolescents to their family homes after dark. The police are directed to enforce this curfew, but forbidden to use deadly force. Many adolescents are arrested by the police; many adolescents are seen by the police but fail to be apprehended. The newness of the situation and the increase in police patrols causes a temporary decline in burglaries. This is heralded as "proof" that the curfews are working to decrease crime, and "proof" that adolescents were responsible for the burglaries.

:But in time burglaries begin to rise again to the former levels, as the burglars become more comfortable with the new rules. Addressing this in first order fashion, the curfew is tightened.  Eventually the police will be directed to use deadly force against the adolescents in order to collect those who had been successfully evading their patrols. The continuance of burglaries is used as "proof" that adolescents continue to violate curfew.

==Fallacy of First Order Control==

(contracted; show full)some of the participants, so it is often intentionally provoked. Certain to benefit from fallacious control that involves violence are hawkish and fascist political parties, armament manufacturers, and security forces. Other forms of fallacious control exist and should not be discounted, as when increased taxes inspire increased tax evasion: this can lead to the impoverishment of honest tax-payers and success for the dishonest.

==References==

*<i>Change</i> [[Paul Watzlawick]] [find urls]