Monday, September 30, 2013

In Memory of William T. Powers

William T. Powers - 8/29/1926 - 5/24/2013

William Powers, the creator and leading proponent of Perceptual Control Theory (PCT), passed away on May 24 at his home in Boulder, CO. Powers pioneered the understanding  and teaching of PCT principles in both the scientific and behavioral community. His first publication was published in 1960 and set the tone for a significant shift in the understanding of the nature of living systems and human behavior. The foundation of analyzing PCT lies within the study of the "negative feedback loop" and the "levels of perception."  Powers was unselfish in sharing his insight to anyone who sought to understand what makes all living systems 'tick'. Several professional organizations (scientific, educational and management) carry on the work initiated by Powers through training, research and living the principles defined in PCT.

A memorial research fund has been established to continue study and development of PCT. Interested contributors can contact Richard Markham at rsmarken@gmail.com. The International Association for Applied Control Theory (IAACT) owes its foundation in large part the work of William T. Powers. IAACT members will continue shared all we have learned from Bill with the world.

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