An outline of the varieties of the second-order systems sciences

The systems sciences are based on a universal language of systems which can be used within most academic disciplines in their endeavors for exploring the world. Currently, systems sciences cover a wide variety of different approaches like complex adaptive systems, resilient systems or systems engineering. One of the future extensions of the systems sciences comes through the applications of second-order systems science as a new field of reflexive studies on first-order systems science. This article provides a general background on the relations of first-order science and second-order science in general and then goes on to sketch a basic outline for the second-order systems sciences and their potentials for quality control and for innovations for the first-order systems sciences.