Homeostasis

Homeostasis as a mechanism for maintaining balance in biological, social and technical systems through continuous regulation of internal parameters.

Homeostasis
Cybernetics
Theory
Author

Tomasz Włodarczyk

Published

August 7, 2025

Homeostasis as a mechanism for self-maintaining balance in biological, social, and technical systems through continuous regulation of internal parameters.

Introduction

Homeostasis is a key concept in cybernetics, describing the ability of systems to maintain internal stability despite changing external conditions. It is a dynamic self-regulation process that allows systems to preserve balance and proper functioning.

Characteristics:

Homeostasis is characterized by:

  1. The ability for automatic regulation
  2. Maintenance of constant internal parameters
  3. Minimization of the impact of disruptive factors
  4. Adaptation to changing conditions

Key Mechanisms:

  • Feedback loops
  • Multilevel regulation
  • Self-control
  • Compensation for disturbances

Practical Examples from Various Fields:

Biology and Medicine:

  1. Regulation of body temperature
  2. Blood sugar levels
  3. Immune mechanisms
  4. Hormonal balance
  5. Breathing and blood circulation

Psychology:

  1. Coping with stress
  2. Defense mechanisms of personality
  3. Adaptation to new life conditions
  4. Emotional balance

Economics and Organizations:

  1. Crisis management systems
  2. Market self-regulation mechanisms
  3. Adaptive strategies of companies
  4. Counteracting financial fluctuations

Technology:

  1. Air conditioning systems
  2. Temperature regulators
  3. Autonomous control systems
  4. Smart energy grids

Society:

  1. Democratic mechanisms
  2. Legal systems
  3. Negotiation processes
  4. Balancing group interests

Conclusions

Homeostasis is a fundamental adaptive mechanism that enables systems to maintain balance and continuity of functioning. It is a key element of survival and development strategies in complex, dynamically changing environments.

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O autorze
Ks. Tomasz Włodarczyk
© 2025 Ks. Tomasz Włodarczyk

Obraz Akadamia Platona, Mozaika rzymska z 1 w. p. Chr., Museo Nazionale Archeologico, Neapol.

Citation

For attribution, please cite this work as:
Włodarczyk, Tomasz. 2025. “Homeostasis.” Ecclesia Cybernetica, August. https://ecclesiacybernetica.org/Cybernetics/Homeostasis/.