
Theories of feedback regulation
Feedback regulation theories explain how systems maintain stability and balance by monitoring their output and making adjustments. In essence, a system evaluates its current state and compares it to a desired condition. If there’s a difference, it triggers responses to correct any deviations. For example, in biology, your body regulates temperature by sensing heat and activating mechanisms to cool down or warm up. These feedback loops can be negative, working to reduce errors and stabilize, or positive, amplifying changes. Overall, feedback regulation ensures systems function effectively by continuously adjusting based on their performance.