Complexity Science
The Study of Emergence

Ecosystems, the human brain, ant colonies, and economic networks are all complex systems displaying collective behaviour, or emergence, beyond the sum of their parts. Complexity science is the systematic investigation of these emergent phenomena, and stretches across disciplines, from physics and mathematics, to biological and social sciences. This introductory textbook provides detailed coverage of this rapidly growing field, accommodating readers from a variety of backgrounds, and with varying levels of mathematical skill. Part I presents the underlying principles of complexity science, to ensure students have a solid understanding of the conceptual framework. The second part introduces the key mathematical tools central to complexity science, gradually developing the mathematical formalism, with more advanced material provided in boxes. A broad range of end of chapter problems and extended projects offer opportunities for homework assignments and student research projects, with solutions available to instructors online. Key terms are highlighted in bold and listed in a glossary for easy reference, while annotated reading lists offer the option for extended reading and research.

Awards

• Finalist, 2024 PROSE- Physical Sciences and Mathematics, Association of American Publishers

Reviews & endorsements

'Henrik Jensen has produced a masterpiece - describing complexity science from the perspective of a universal theory applicable to many different subject areas, and based on fundamental theoretical principles. A clear virtue of the exposition is that many different topics relevant for complex systems are first treated in an easy-going introductory way, while concrete mathematical models and applications are then provided in the second part of the book. This is a well-thought-through textbook that presents complexity science as a whole, rather than as a collection of single topics.' Christian Beck, Queen Mary University of London

Customer reviews

Product details

• Date Published: November 2022
• format: Adobe eBook Reader

• isbn: 9781108883160
• availability: This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.