Abstract

This book aims to explain, by appealing to the mathematical method of arbitrary functions (MAF) initiated by Hopf and Poincaré, how the many and various interactions of the parts of a complex system often result in simple probabilistic patterns of behaviour. A complex system is vaguely defined as a system of many parts (called enions) which are somewhat autonomous but strongly interacting (italicized words are Strevens’ jargon). Strevens says that a system shows simple behaviour when it can be described mathematically with a small number of variables. A philosophical treatment of complex systems, the MAF, and the emergence of simple probabilistic patterns is welcome because these important topics have been rather neglected.