Capable Quote by John L. Casti
“System theorists know that it's easy to couple simple-to-understand systems into a "super system" that's capable of displaying behavioral modes that cannot be seen in any of its constituent parts. This is the process called "emergence."”
About This Quote
Source Book: Complex Adaptive Systems by John L. Casti, 1994
Combining simple parts can create a system that exhibits new, unpredictable behaviors not present in any individual component.
In simple terms: Simple parts can produce unexpected whole behaviors.
Key Takeaway
Study interactions, not just parts.
Themes
systems
emergence
complexity
interdependence
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- software development
- ecosystem management
- organizational design
- policy making
Key Concepts
systems theory
nonlinear dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we anticipate emergent outcomes?
- When is emergence beneficial?
A Different Perspective
Emergence can be hard to control or predict.
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