Complexity Science
Construct Definition
Definition of complexity science from the Santa Fe Institute (1996) - "the conditions of the universe, which is integrated, and too rich and varied for us to understand in linear, mechanistic ways" - This refers to the interaction of the many parts within a system, giving rise to properties, not found in any one particular part of the system, but only in the "whole". This "new" properties are often referred to as "Emergence", i.e. a higher -level phenomena, which cannot be reduced to a simpler constituent.
Complexity theory is the study of the rules governing emergence, constraints facing self-organisation and system dynamics. Key implication of the complexity view is the notion that reality is inseparable from the usual Cartesian objectivity. The Cartesian construct says that scientific descriptions are objective, i.e. independent of human observation and the process of knowing. The new paradigm implies that epistemology (method of questioning and understanding the process of knowing), must be included explicitly in the description of natural phenomena, especially since we can never truly remove ourselves from an observation? Thus, to understand our world and the things which seem far to "messy", and overly confusing with all its interrelatedness and interconnections, we have no choice but to embrace complexity, not because it will give us definitive answers (that must be relegated to the Cartesian trap of certainty), we know better, and consequently ensure that science be viewed as an approximation of reality.
The science of complexity, as shown is not a single body of theory, but rather comprised of a collection of fields, which include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cognitive science, Ecology, Evolution, Game theory, Linguistics, Social science, Artificial Life (ALife), Computer science, Economics, immunology and philosophy. Unlike traditional science, which focuses their efforts on "ideal phenomena", complexity studies the real world phenomenon like Turbulence, Non-equilibrium, Self-organisation, adaptation, etc. All of which are geared toward the emergent behaviour of biological, technological, social and economic systems.