The ability to shape one's own destiny-to make decisions on the basis of one's own ideals and goals-is a uniquely human characteristic. It is shared by the groups that human beings fonn-peoples, nations, and other communities--each bound by a common destiny. The very existence of different individuals and groups that have this characteristic virtually guarantees that there will be conflicts among them. And yet it is also human to want to find common ground with others. When individuals or groups emphasize their differences, the result is conflict; when they find common ground, cooperation becomes possible. However, even when it appears that cooperative efforts have resolved the sources of conflict, not all conflict will disappear. Conflict is a natural part of all human interaction. Both conflict and cooperation exist simultaneously. All social phenomena can ultimately be reduced to the question of how these two human characteristics are reconciled and allowed to coexist on the same plane.

The Theory of Action Systems.- The Basic Concepts of Systems Theory.- Action Systems as Complex Systems.- Toward an Understanding of the Self-Organizing Nature of the World.- The Relationship of the Present Theory to Parsons' Theory.- One Part of a Whole: Japan in the Context of International Relations.- Has the World Changed Japan?.- How Can Japan Help to Change the World?.