This book bridges the gap between system theory and global climate change research, and benefits both. A representative set of systems problems is listed indicating how such cross-fertilization would enhance present understanding of global problems while assisting the extension of systems theory. The goal is a comprehensive conceptual model of global change which encompasses atmosphere, lithosphere, ocean, biosphere and cryosphere. The systems model is developed in two steps using a "block diagram" approach. First, causality flows among principal components are identified and a block diagram...