Lecture 1 - Intro to Complex Systems

In the first lecture (online) we discussed some general concepts of complexity science. We discussed that

• Complexity Science is a field, but one with out traditional boundaries, one that connects traditional fields, that build bridges and tries to find connections between superficially different phenomena that occur in disparate fields liek for example social sciences and natural sciences.
• We went over the topics covered in class, e.g. synchronisation, networks, critical phenomena, tipping points, collective behavior, and pattern formation.
• Based on a few representative examples, we discussed the difference between complicated and complex.
• We had a first glimpse at some models for collective behavior in animals and human groups.

Further Material

• Lecture Slides in PDF: Lecture_1_Slides.pdf