This book is a kind of introduction to the art of systems thinking, a story about the principles and methods of a holistic understanding of complex systems, about properties whose behavior is determined by the nature of the connections between their components and the ideas of the people involved in them. The authors managed to achieve an unusual combination of imagery and depth by describing problem situations using cause-and-effect cycles - chains of reinforcing and balancing feedbacks. This approach gives the reader a unique opportunity to simultaneously use their abilities for imaginative perception and logical thinking to find extraordinary creative solutions. The book is written in simple, understandable language, which makes it accessible to a wide range of readers. It will help students, young scientists and specialists form and develop a systematic worldview. For professionals - scientists and managers involved in solving socio-political, economic, managerial, psychological, environmental and other complex problems, the book provides a powerful tool for conceptual modeling. It can become the basis for breakthrough solutions in any field.