B4. 12 Rules of Complex Systems

The 12 rules of complex systems 1. Complex systems are numerous (uncountable) in their components in which all components influence each other. They exhibit non-linear behavior emergent from their interactions beyond each component’s mechanical (linear) behavior. 2. Complex systems can be understood but not predicted. Any action upon them may have unpredictable (side-)effects. Don’t make decisions based on prediction; instead, prepare for resilience, adaptability, flexibility and so forth. 3. Complex systems grow like organisms, and, like them, perish like them. No complex system is meant to exist for eternity. Understand and accept the natural cycle of things, and aim for self-reproductivity and longevity rather than eternality. 4. Complex systems require an increasing number of resources per added unit of complexity. This means there are always limits to their growth. Systems respond differently at different scales, but may exhibit similar patterns at different scales. 5. Complex systems change rapidly in revolution-like jumps, as well as in slow evolutionary progression, and both together. These events can be triggered by anything. Patterns in details are just as important as large-scale variables. 6. Complex systems do not necessarily behave the same way given the same conditions, nor is historical behavior always an indication of future behavior. 7. Complex systems are always dynamic, never sit still, and are never entirely in balance, even if they seem to be. 8. Complex systems are not aware or alive per se, but may exhibit survival or seemingly cognitive behavior. It makes sense to mentally construct a complex system as a biological entity with a character to increase your understanding of its dynamics. 9. Complex systems require incubation periods for changes to be registered, processed, and acted upon. Be patient. Measure in the full spectrum for any changes lest you miss a rebound effect or changed state somewhere. 10. Complex systems, at the moment, can best be understood by human brains, as they’re also organic complex systems. Immersing oneself in a complex system and fully inter­ acting with it is the best way to learn its behavior. In other words, try to get out from behind your desk and connect. 11. Complex systems interact beyond their chosen system boundary, which needs to be taken into account at all times. Maximize the beneficial properties of these external­ izations and minimize the system’s depen­ dency on them for increased sustainability. 12. Complex systems always offer hidden dynamic processes that can have beneficial as well as destructive effects. Find these patterns to boost capacity for change and prevent harmful externalities.