The purpose of a system is what it does - Wikipedia
I think I've seen this before, but I stumbled across it in a lemmy comment just now and figured I'd post it.
I think this indicates to me that there are really two meanings of the word "purpose" - one is design intent, the other is real-world function. Having that distinction is useful, e.g. it let you discuss how a design succeeded or failed..
4 replies
War on drugs:
Identity politics:
Economic bubble booming and busting:
FPTP voting system enabling ruling parties to cement their position with ragebait and fearmongering: