Foundations of Complex-system Theories
In Economics, Evolutionary Biology, and Statistical Physics

Analyzes approaches to the study of complexity in the physical, biological, and social sciences.

Sunny Y. Auyang (Author)

9780521778268, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 28 August 1999

420 pages
24.6 x 18.9 x 2.2 cm, 0.75 kg

'… extraordinarily thoughtful and interesting … it's beautifully written - simple, crisp, clear, and perceptive …'. John Ziman, Interdisciplinary Science Reviews

Complex behaviour can occur in any system made up of large numbers of interacting constituents, be they atoms in a solid, cells in a living organism, or consumers in a national economy. Analysis of this behaviour often involves making important assumptions and approximations, the exact nature of which vary from subject to subject. Foundations of Complex-system Theories begins with a description of the general features of complexity and then examines a range of important concepts, such as theories of composite systems, collective phenomena, and stochastic processes. Each topic is discussed with reference to the fields of statistical physics, evolutionary biology, and economics, thereby highlighting recurrent themes in the study of complex systems. This detailed yet nontechnical book will appeal to anyone who wants to know more about complex systems and their behaviour. It will also be of great interest to specialists studying complexity in the physical, biological, and social sciences.

1. Introduction
Part I. Equilibrium: 2. Theories of composite systems
3. Individuals: systems and constituents
4. Situated individuals and the situation
5. Interacting individuals and collective phenomena
6. Macro individuals and emergent properties
Part II. Dynamics: 7. The temporality of dynamical systems
8. The complexity of deterministic dynamics
9. Stochastic processes
10. Directionality, history, expectation
11. Epilogue.

Subject Areas: Nonlinear science [PBWR]