Why can choosing boundaries for analysis be considered an art?

Choosing boundaries for analysis can indeed be considered an art because it requires creative thinking. When analyzing complex systems, determining the scope, limits, or boundaries is not always straightforward. It involves assessing which elements are relevant for the analysis and recognizing how those elements interact with one another.

This process often involves subjective judgment and the ability to see connections that may not be immediately obvious. For instance, in considering a technological, social, or sustainable system, one must decide where to start and stop the analysis, which could affect the conclusions drawn significantly. It requires the analyst to envision different scenarios, the implications of various choices, and to think critically about the context in which the system operates.

Creative thinking is essential in this process because it allows analysts to navigate the complexities and uncertainties inherent in most systems, enabling them to structure their analysis in a way that provides meaningful insights.