Wither Complexity ? ©

نویسنده

  • Lewis L. Smith
چکیده

A basic problem with complexity is that we would like to characterize all complex systems both verbally and mathematically and do so in a clear, concise and distinctive manner, as do scientists with many of the systems found in other fields. Such characterizations are necessary if we are to distinguish complex systems from other kinds of dynamical systems, influence their functioning, forecast their behavior and formulate the public policies to be followed in dealing with them. In fact, some people seem to be making considerable progress. These include the people who study systems which can be modeled as biotic systems, cellular automata or networks, or as systems which can be adapted to the framework of statistical physics. However, the question remains, what about the rest of us ? Whether or not such characterizations are possible for many types of complex systems remains very much an open question. This paper surveys progress to date and suggests some promising avenues for further research but reaches a guarded conclusion. Complexity is rather like pornography. We can almost always tell a complex system when we see one, but we frequently 1 © Windy Hill Associates 2010. Reproduction and distribution authorized only for non-commercial purposes within small work places, such as an academic department, a classroom, an office or a research unit.

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تاریخ انتشار 2010