The Ouroboros, circularity and the movements of life and love

Purpose Artistic images of the Ouroboros, frequently used by Heinz von Foerster, may go beyond a static illustration of circularity and reveal circularity in action instead as it unfolds in human systems. The conceptual implications of this movement are linked to the open-ended style used by von Foerster to present his own concepts and specifically the circularity between observing and observed systems. The framing of this latter circularity has been changing with the spirit of the times since he first developed it. Design/methodology/approach This is an invitation to think about some central but abstract concepts, linking them with other concepts that emerge from singular experiences within specific fields of practice. Materials from interactions with von Foerster are shared in order to show how circularity in action is embodied in the author's specific conception of the singular sense of human experience. Findings This article presents classical concepts of cybernetics in light of new practices and reflections linked to changing philosophical frames. It negotiates the concept of circularity for social practices such as family therapy. In doing so, it conceives singular experiences of sense as different from linguistic meaning, and of systemic flexibility as linked to potentiality. Originality/value This is a testimony about both the ongoing value of classical contributions to cybernetics as exemplified by those of Heinz von Foerster and the value of establishing new connections, thus maintaining their relevance.