Topic 15 Complexity Chaos

Question 1

What does Chaos theory state?

Answer 1

Systems do not change linearly but in multiple directions
Social behavior and social systems are very complex, and the only prediction that can be made is that they are unpredictable

Question 2

What is a dynamic system?

Answer 2

Systems constantly changing.

Question 3

Which is Chaos’ theory goal?

Answer 3

Find general order of social systems

Question 4

Characteristics of Chaos theory:

Answer 4

Determinist
Sensitive to initial conditions
Has an order and pattern

Question 5

Important concepts of Chaos theory

Answer 5

Butterfly effect The slightest change in the starting point can lead to a very different result.
Attractor: Balance inside the system(eventually stabilizes)
Strange attractor: path over which a system changes from one situation to another without having to settle.

Question 6

Main representatives of Complexity theory

Answer 6

Stuart Kauffman
Murray Gell-Mann
Phillip Anderson

Question 7

Main characteristics of Complexity?

Answer 7

A great number of elements or similar agents, but independent.
Persistent movement
The ability to adapt to ensure the survival.
Self-management
Local regulations that apply to each agent.
The system becomes larger and more sophisticated.

Question 8

For its study, in what does researchers rely on?

Answer 8

Computer simulation

Question 9

Terms used in complexity?

Answer 9

Size The greater the system, the greater the complexity.
Ignorance A system is complex when you know nothing of it.
Variety Different nature of the parts of a system.

Question 10

Who was chaos’ theory pioneer?

Answer 10

Edward Norton Lorenz