An Introduction to Complex Systems

1. Front Matter

   Pages i-xiv

   PDF

2. Introduction

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 1-34

3. Simple Rules

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 35-59

4. Non-linear Systems

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 61-97

5. Pattern Formation

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 99-133

6. Networks

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 135-174

7. Information Flow

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 175-214

8. Thermodynamics of Complex Systems

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 215-252

9. Game Theory

   • Joe Tranquillo

   Pages 253-292

10. Dynamics of Networks

    • Joe Tranquillo

    Pages 293-322

11. The Edge

    • Joe Tranquillo

    Pages 323-359

12. Criticisms and Future Directions

    • Joe Tranquillo

    Pages 361-369

13. Back Matter

    Pages 371-396

    PDF

This book explores the interdisciplinary field of complex systems theory. By the end of the book, readers will be able to understand terminology that is used in complex systems and how they are related to one another; see the patterns of complex systems in practical examples; map current topics, in a variety of fields, to complexity theory; and be able to read more advanced literature in the field. The book begins with basic systems concepts and moves on to how these simple rules can lead to complex behavior. The author then introduces non-linear systems, followed by pattern formation, and networks and information flow in systems. Later chapters cover the thermodynamics of complex systems, dynamical patterns that arise in networks, and how game theory can serve as a framework for decision making. The text is interspersed with both philosophical and quantitative arguments, and each chapter ends with questions and prompts that help readers make more connections.

“The text provides a useful overview of complex systems, with enough detail to allow a reader unfamiliar with the topic to understand the basics. The book stands out for its comprehensiveness and approachability. It will be particularly useful as a text for introductory physics courses. Tranquillo’s strength is in delivering a vast amount of information in a succinct manner.… A reader can find information quickly and efficiently—that is, in my opinion, the book’s greatest value.” (Stefani Crabtree, Physics Today)

• Non-linear systems
• Pattern formation
• Networks and information flow in systems
• Thermodynamics of complex systems
• Dynamical patterns in networks
• System behaviors
• Cellular Automaton
• Differential equations
• Symmetry breaking
• Turning pattern formation
• Fractals and patterns in phase space
• Scale-free networks
• Artificial intelligence
• Open systems
• Structural adaptation
• Complex and coupled systems
• complexity
• Systems Biology

“The text provides a useful overview of complex systems, with enough detail to allow a reader unfamiliar with the topic to understand the basics. The book stands out for its comprehensiveness and approachability. It will be particularly useful as a text for introductory physics courses. Tranquillo’s strength is in delivering a vast amount of information in a succinct manner. … A reader can find information quickly and efficiently—that is, in my opinion, the book’s greatest value.” (Stefani Crabtree, Physics Today, November, 2019)

• Bucknell University, Lewisburg, USA

  Joe Tranquillo

Joe Tranquillo is Associate Professor of Biomedical and Electrical Engineering at Bucknell University, where he co-founded the Bucknell Innovation Group, KEEN Winter Interdisciplinary Design Experience, served as the co-director of the Institute for Leadership in Technology and Management, and currently directs the Teaching and Learning Center. 

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