Understanding the contributions of some Russian scientists to developing systems thinking and the theory of evolution Tatiana A. Medvedeva Department of World Economy and Law, Siberian State Transport University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation Abstract Purpose – This study aims to explain and illustrate the character of Russian systems thinking and to show how it is different and similar to traditions in the West. This study’s second aim is to describe the contributions of some Russian scientists to developing systems thinking and the theory of evolution. This study introduces the predecessors of Charles Darwin in Russia, both supporters and critics of his ideas, as well as scientists who have made similar contributions to the development of systems thinking, particularly Vladimir Vernadsky and Alexander Bogdanov. Design/methodology/approach – Philosophical and theoretical comparisons. In the Russian intellectual tradition, the terms “Russia” and the “West” are likely codes for signifying fundamental philosophical questions about the universality of thinking and culture. The term “West” means universal, rational truth without taking into consideration any differences in life and cultural practice. The term “Russia” means impossibility of such a universal truth and a necessity to look for solutions on the level of life, not only on the level of rational thinking. Findings – Paying attention to differences in approaches to systems and cybernetics and the theory of evolution will enrich the further development of systems sciences in Russia and the West. The paper examines the philosophical underpinnings of science rather than just testing or extending an existing theory. The result is better mutual understanding among scientists with different backgrounds. Originality/value – This study suggests new avenues for research and expands the range of conceptual possibilities. It improves mutual understanding among scholars and countries. Also, it adds to the topics discussed within the field of systems and cybernetics and the theory of evolution. Keywords Intellectual traditions, Theory of evolution, Tektology, Systems thinking, Cybernetics Paper type Conceptual paper Introduction Scientists learn about the world using scientific methods. The procedures used by scientists for constructing and testing descriptions of observations are implemented in a certain logical approach in a particular intellectual tradition. The apparatus of logical thinking is based on a set of categories, assumptions and rules for formulating problems and constructing evidence in each field of knowledge. Knowing the logical apparatus, it is possible to solve certain problems. But over time, new tasks appear that cannot be solved within the framework of the old logical constructions, and possibly, within the framework of the earlier intellectual tradition. As human society develops and interactions intensify, it is becoming necessary to coordinate the activities of people living not only in different countries, but also on different continents. There are questions and problems requiring the collective efforts of the peoples Contributions of some Russian scientists Received 17 March 2019 Revised 3 December 2019 30 March 2020 3 April 2020 Accepted 3 April 2020 Kybernetes © Emerald Publishing Limited 0368-492X DOI 10.1108/K-03-2019-0175 The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at: https://www.emerald.com/insight/0368-492X.htm