HiddenOrder

Order, How Adaption Builds Complexity|http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0201442302/qid1027637694/sr2-1/ref=sr21/002-0122544-7702445] by John H. Holland

A seminal character in computing and philosophy, Holland attempts to define 'Complexity' in adaptive systems (CAS). Step by step he takes us through a framework of seven basic elements necessary for all CAS. 1/3 of the book is spent defining 'Adaptive Agents' ,(Chapter 2), and although this is quite dense his argument gives us a template to extend cross disciplines. The following 1/3 (Chapters 3 and 4) discuss the ECHO model and some of its simulations. Chapter 5 is a brief discussion of the principles of Complexity theory, and a call for mathematical rigor.

What I liked about this book was the compactness (170 pgs.) and cross-indexing. All of the ideas used have their supporting references for additional research. Recommended for those serious about complexity research and computational modeling. General principles can more easily be picked up in other writings (Ex. 1027638802/sr2-2/ref=sr22/002-0122544-7702445 Complexity by M. Waldrop).

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