Complexity theory, the field of study of complex systems, is a relatively recent theory. It is a broad theory encompassing nine research traditions—an aggregation of principles, concepts, theories, and disciplines. The nine interrelated complexity research traditions include: systems thinking, theoretical biology, nonlinear dynamical systems, graph theory, phase transitions, Turing’s morphogenetic model, synergetics, far-from-equilibrium thermodynamics, and complex adaptive systems.

Holland (1995) suggested that seven basics (four properties and three mechanisms) are common to all complex systems. See Brownlee (2007), Smith and Bedau (2000), and Holland’s TED Talk for details on these complex systems basics to respond to in this week’s Discussion.

To prepare for this Discussion, review the resources.

Post by Day 3 your perspective on Holland’s properties and mechanisms of complex adaptive systems. Next, explain what is useful and/or problematic in his approach. Finally, explain how Holland’s ideas might inform your understanding of the structure of organizations and how that may support your ability to lead or manage effectively.

References

Brownlee, J. (2007). Complex adaptive systems. Retrieved from http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.70.7345&rep=rep1&type=pdf

Nelson, C. (2005). Tagging, aggregation, and social relational models. Proceedings of the 2005 Complexity Science and Educational Research Conference, 31–43. Retrieved from https://www.academia.edu/Documents/in/Social_Relational_Models

Uhl-Bien, M., & Marion, R. (Eds.). (2008). Complexity leadership, part 1: Conceptual foundations. Charlotte, NC: Information Age.

Chapter 2, “Conceptual Foundations of Complexity Science: Development and Main Constructs” (pp. 17–48)

Smith, R. M., & Bedau, M. A. (2000). Is Echo a complex adaptive system? Evolutionary Computation, 8(4), 419–442. Retrieved from http://people.reed.edu/~mab/publications/papers/smith.pdf

Holland, J. (2010). Building blocks and innovation [Video file]. Retrieved from http://tedxtalks.ted.com/video/TEDxUofM-John-Holland-Building;search%3Atag%3A%22TEDxUofM%22