The systems archetypes are a set of general recurring systems thinking patterns. These patterns have been found to have broad applicability across many different kinds of systems, as their descriptions reveal.

Fixes that Fail - A quick fix that produces immediate positive results, but its unforeseen long-term consequences worsen the problem.
Balancing Loop with Delay - The current state of a system is moved toward the desired state though repeated actions, but the delay raises doubts about their effectiveness.
Shifting the Burden ("Addiction") - An expedient solution temporarily solves a problem, but its repeated use makes it harder to employ a more fundamental solution.
Accidental Adversaries - Two parties destroy their relationship through escalating retaliations for perceived injuries.
Escalation - Two parties compete for superiority, with each escalating its actions to get ahead.
Drifting Goals - A gradual decline in performance or quality goals goes unnoticed, threatening the long-term future of the system.
Growth and Underinvestment - Investments in a growing area aren't made, so growth stalls, which then rationalizes further underinvestment.
Success to the Successful - When two parties compete for a limited resource, the initially more successful party receives more resources, increasing its success.
Limits to Growth - Initially rapid growth slows because of an inherent capacity limit in the system that worsens with growth.
Tragedy of the Commons - A shared resource is depleted as each party abuses it for individual gain, ultimately hurting all who share it.