Modern Complexity Theory

Catalog description

The scientific study of complex systems has achieved relevant progress in recent decades. This was possible because electronic computers are required to study interactions, which characterize complexity. Using computers as tools, concepts such as emergence, self-organization, criticality, information, adaptation, robustness, antifragility, evolution, and more have been elaborated in a broad range of domains. Combined with methods such as network science, agent-based modelling, and artificial intelligence, our understanding of complex systems is allowing us to solve problems in novel ways. The lectures will span from formal theories to practical applications to philosophical implications. Students will be encouraged to participate and discuss in class concepts and research papers. Coursework will be adaptive, to accommodate students with or without advanced mathematical/programming backgrounds. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or permission of instructor. Offered at least once a year.