FOUNDATIONS OF COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Nonlinear Dynamics, Statistical Physics, Information and Prediction
by Gregoire Nicolis (University of Brussels, Belgium)
&
Catherine Nicolis (Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium, Belgium)
Table of Contents (45k)
Preface (46k)
Chapter 1: The Phenomenology of complex systems (1,341k)
Complexity is emerging as a post-Newtonian paradigm for approaching a large body of phenomena of concern at the crossroads of physical, engineering, environmental, life and human sciences from a unifying point of view. This book outlines the foundations of modern complexity research as it arose from the cross-fertilization of ideas and tools from nonlinear science, statistical physics and numerical simulation. It is shown how these developments lead to an understanding, both qualitative and quantitative, of the complex systems encountered in nature and in everyday experience and, conversely, how natural complexity acts as a source of inspiration for progress at the fundamental level.
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