M. Mitchell Waldrop
8 key ideas, each explained in our own words.
Complexity
- IDEA 1
A new science studied complexity
Waldrop tells the story of the Santa Fe Institute, founded in the 1980s by scientists who wanted to study complex systems across many fields. They believed economies, ecosystems and brains shared deep patterns.
- IDEA 2
Success can feed on itself
Waldrop describes the economist Brian Arthur's idea of increasing returns, in which a small early lead can grow into dominance. This challenged traditional economics. Early winners can lock in their place, even if a rival would have been better.
- IDEA 3
Systems can adapt
Waldrop describes complex adaptive systems, made of many parts that learn and change. Examples include immune systems, markets and ecosystems. No central controller directs such systems, yet they can show surprising order over time.
Go deeper with M. Mitchell WaldropAsk questions, argue with the ideas and practise using them, free.
Open in the app