Advancing Applications of System Dynamics in Critical Food Systems Research; Comment on “Using System Dynamics to Understand Transnational Corporate Power in Diet-Related Non-communicable Disease Prevention Policy-Making: A Case Study of South Africa”

Articles in Press

Document Type : Commentary

Authors

1 School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia

2 Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia

3 Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia

4 Alfred Deakin Institute, Faculty of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia

Abstract

This commentary commends Milsom et al. for their critical and rigorous application of qualitative system dynamics to unpack corporate power in food policy-making. Their use of Critical Realism, best practice qualitative methods, and feedback loops exemplifies the maturation of system dynamics applications in public health research. We reflect on how their work aligns with broader debates about power and social theory in system dynamics and how it offers a blueprint for trustworthiness and reflexivity in qualitative modelling. Drawing on our team’s work with Aboriginal communities in Australia, we highlight the value of culturally grounded, participatory modelling in amplifying the voices of communities experiencing historical and ongoing oppression. We support the authors’ call to advance toward simulation modelling and stress the importance of engaging with both system dynamics and communitybased knowledge to realise the transformative potential of systems-informed, community-led research in reshaping food policy and practice.
 
 

Keywords

International Journal of Health Policy and Management

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 June 2025

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History

  • Received Date: 01 April 2025
  • Revised Date: 30 May 2025
  • Accepted Date: 01 June 2025
  • First Published Date: 03 June 2025

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