Equilibrium Quote by Ulrich Müller
““In the opening chapter Piaget describes equilibrium as “…a process leading from certain states of near equilibrium to others, qualitatively different, through multiple disequilibria and reequilibrations” (Piaget, 1975/1985, p. 3). Equilibrium must be taken as a dynamic equilibrium: as a property of a process that is constantly changing as far as its elements are concerned but that has found a stable form. This stability is also described elsewhere in the book as closure of the structure. The systems are “…open in the sense that they involve exchanges with the environment and closed in the sense that they constitute cycles” (Piaget, 1975/1985, p. 4).””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Equilibrium of Cognitive Development, 1975
Cognitive development is a dynamic process of moving between near‑equilibrium states through continual adjustments and re‑stabilizations.
In simple terms: Learning constantly shifts between stable and changing states.
Key Takeaway
Embrace change as part of growth.
Themes
education
development
psychology
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
academic
psychological
When to use this quote
- classroom learning
- skill acquisition
- personal change
Key Concepts
Dynamic systems
equilibrium theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What equilibria are you resisting?
- How can you use disequilibrium product?
A Different Perspective
Stability may be over‑emphasized, limiting adaptability.
![“[The notion of equilibrium] is a notion which can be employed usefully in varying degrees of looseness. It is an absolutely indispensable part of the toolbag of the economist and one which he can often contribute usefully to other sciences which are occasionally apt to get lost in the trackless…” quote by Kenneth E. Boulding](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b6e/kenneth-e-boulding-3728_degrees_the-notion-of-equilibrium-is-a-notion-wh_2629386.jpg)
