Complex Adaptive Systems

A complex adaptive system (CAS) is a special class of systems comprising a large collection of diverse, interacting parts that are interconnected in a hierarchical manner such that the organizational system functions without centralized control. The notion of a CAS has roots in complexity and chaos theories and has the potential for contributing to better understanding of the behavioral and social sciences. Complex refers to the numerous attributes of the world; the most important aspect is the nonlinear nature of relationships in the world. Adaptive relates to the focus on change and evolution, which are central behavioral traits of agents—individuals, groups, and societies—in response to their external environments. Finally, system focuses attention on the interconnections between agents within defined boundaries. The all-encompassing nature of reputation ...