Thinking in Complexity : The Computational Dynamics of Matter, Mind, and Mankind
Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Chaos is cropping up everywhere these days. As it becomes ever more apparent that Newtonian mechanics is inadequate for modeling nonlinear systems, or systems that have too many degrees of freedom to handle easily, researchers in all fields are turning toward nonlinear dynamics as a refreshing alternative. This is a paradigm shift à la Kuhn, and Klaus Mainzer guides us through it with an astounding range of historical and scientific knowledge. From quantum physics to consciousness to economics, Mainzer shows us how thinking complexly can solve problems over which standard, linear thinking continually stumbles. Instead of simplifying, however, Mainzer revels in the complexity of complexity, so the reader should be prepared for advanced concepts in such varied fields as mathematics, physics, and economics. Difficult, but worthwhile reading.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Book Description
The theory of nonlinear complex systems has become a proven problem-solving approach in the natural sciences from laser physics to computer simulations of cell growth in biology. It is now recognized that many of our social, ecological, and political problems are also of a global, complex, and nonlinear nature. And it is now accepted the human mind is governed largely by the nonlinear dynamics of complex systems. In this wide-ranging but concise treatment, Prof. Mainzer discusses, in mostly nontechnical language, the common framework behind these endeavors. Emphasis is given to the evolution of new structures in natural and cultural systems and we see clearly how the new integrative approach can give insights not available from traditional reductionistic methods. This new edition also treats smart materials and artificial life. A new chapter on information and computational dynamics takes up many recent discussions in the community.
Thinking in Complexity : The Computational Dynamics of Matter, Mind, and Mankind
Thinking in Complexity: The Computational Dynamics of Matter, Mind, and Mankind,Klaus Mainzer,Springer,3540002391,Computer science,Ethics & Moral Philosophy,General,History,Philosophy,Philosophy & Social Aspects,Science,Social sciences,Science / Physics
Books Info:
Recommended Books