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Title: Could be improved considerably
Review: Schriver's is a text whose reach exceeds its grasp. The theoretical premise and the structure for the text are good. Schriver argues that there are biases in traditional approaches to various systems and that alternative paradigms exist. However, the writing is often dense. The classification of some theories as "traditional" vs "alternative" can be disputed. Many theories seem to have characteristics of both. On a positive note, many of the readings included in the text are very interesting.As a faculty member who has used the book in a BSW course, I find that I need to guide students through this text. I distribute a guide to each chapter. Essentially I "translate" Schriver with more concrete examples. Other texts I have use require fewer translations. Schriver's focus is perhaps too sophisticated for the average undergraduate.
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