A synthesis and a practical approach to complex systems

Abstract

This document is both a synthesis of current notions about complex systems, and a practical approach description. A disambiguation is proposed and exposes possible reasons for controversies related to causation and emergence. Theoretical considerations about simulations are presented. A justification is then given for the development of practical tools and techniques for the investigation of complex systems. A methodology for the usage of these tools is finally suggested, illustrated by application examples.

v3: minor update about algorithmic complexity. v2: Better introduction; Section 2 is clearer; Improved the state of art; More examples are now given in section 2.4. Document updated from the content of the author PhD thesis available at http://nicolas.brodu.free.fr