System theory is perhaps primarily associated with the German sociologist Niklas Luhmann although many other sociologists and cultural theorists have played a role as well.   

Luhmann’s primary field of interest and study were social systems operating through communication. These are thought to be autopoietic and self-referential, that is to say they work within their own set of logic and rules and, theoretically speaking, principally without outside influence.

Luhmann remains very popular within modern sociology and cultural theory, however, some philosophers have argued classic system theory is fairly close to classic monad theory.

Keynote speakers on system theory try to explain Luhmann’s sometimes rather lofty ideas. What is system theory, what is the use of it, what are the strengths and what are the weaknesses of this theoretical approach?