Understanding Zargham: how does complexity work?
If I were to poke you in the eye, your eye would hurt. That is a very straightforward action and re-action. It is a nice example of an if this then that-sequence.
Point is, a whole lot of our lives and the systems that surround it, are not as straightforward that we can simply capture them with a set of if-then statements.
And how about nature? Well, we invented the term eco-systems for a reason: all interactions within nature are so many and so intricate, that there too, if-then-statements are not enough. Nature is complex.
“Complexity characterises the behavior of a system or model whose components interact in multiple ways and follow local rules, meaning there is no reasonable higher instruction to define the various possible interactions” – Wikipedia
So, if you want to try and create software that does what nature does, it will be a huge challenge. Luckily, we’re not the first to make an effort.
Mapping Complexity
In the coming weeks, we will explore the work of Michael Zargham on complex systems. Starting from his introductory talk at the Future of Trust Summit 2018, we will then take a closer look at the different parts of his approach. We will also see if we can map existing efforts to his models. This will help you identify possible options for leverage of cooperation, while at the same time helping you navigate the vast world of complexity.
Video of Michael Zargham’s talk at the the Future of Trust Summit 2018
I hope you will join us, please share any questions you have right here, or in the Odyssey community, so we can incorporate them in our research.
This is the first in a series of posts, written specifically for the nature2.ooo initiative.
