A "Holon" is a concept that describes something that is both a whole and a part of a larger system. It originates from the Greek word "holos," meaning whole. In various fields, such as biology and systems theory, a holon can represent an entity that functions independently while also being part of a more complex structure. For example, a cell is a holon within an organism, as it operates on its own but also contributes to the organism's overall function. The idea of holons is often associated with the work of philosopher Arthur Koestler, who introduced the term in his book "The Ghost in the Machine." Holons can be found in many areas, including ecology, where individual species are holons within an ecosystem, and in business, where departments function as holons within a company. This dual nature helps to understand the interconnectedness of systems and the balance between autonomy and interdependence.