Reality consists neither of things and processes,
reality is neither just a whole, nor just a part,
reality consists of "whole/parts", of holons otherwise.

Every holon has the dual tendency to preserve
and assert its individuality as a quasi-autonomous whole;
and to function as an integrated part
of an (existing or evolving) larger whole.

These are the horizontal capabilities of a holon.
It's vertical capabilities are those of disintegration
and self-transcendence,
which are the engine of evolution.

Holarchy.
Holons come into existence in a holarchical way.
Holarchy is a more precise name for hierarchy,
lacking it's tyrannical vocals.

Each senior dimension transcends and includes its juniors;
each level is a whole that is part of another whole, indefinitely,
which is exactly why each unfolding stage transcends
and includes its predecessor(s)

Functional holons
are governed by fixed sets of rules and display
more or less flexible strategies.

The basic condition for holon functioning
is it's developed communicative capacity:
being ready for fast understanding of a situation
and a potential to flexible reacting
towards constantly changing outer circumstances.

The human mind as a holonic system
is on one hand a whole in itself,
on the other hand a part of the holonic production line:
it is both the product and the producing unit.

http://panarchy.org/koestler/holon.1969.html