A Multidisciplinary Approach to Complex Systems Design

摘要: The design and management of organised systems, comprised dynamic interdependent collectives autonomous agents, is the kind problem that discipline complex systems intended to address. Nevertheless, conventional model-based applications may be limited utility when also data-poor soft. In this case, a quantitative model at best meaningless; worst harmful. Systems approaches, such as soft methodologies, have been developed provide some guidance in domain. However, these alternatives do not utilise exact techniques preferring abandon mathematical representations altogether. It aim thesis advance “conceptual analysis” approach exploits deep insights from mathematics without building explicit models underlying system. argued can extend domain applicability into situations where data unavailable, human social factors are significant. Conceptual analysis inherently multidisciplinary, because it broader than foundations any single discipline. This reflected structure thesis, which spans philosophy, theory application systems. Part I on philosophy develops an understanding representation, sheds light limitations models. history movement then surveyed, systemism distinguished both individualism holism, ‘system’ defined. Complex contrasted with early contemporary approaches. II firstly relates major theoretical concepts within rigourous information framework. They include complexity, edge chaos, self-organisation, emergence, adaptation, evolution self referentiality. central concept – emergence examined depth beyond its theoretic interpretation, leading concise definition emergent properties emergence. A new framework for terms scope, resolution state yields substantial novel insights. shown coupled contrast explanation levels description. III applies preceding philosophical real-world problems defence security arena. first example, multi-scale complexity reveals structural impediments success force structures asymmetric warfare, Operation Iraqi Freedom. second example analyses capability development process, responsible