Systems, Networks, and Circuits

Abstract

This chapter begins with general systems theory (GST), which is the basis of many attempts to model living systems, from individual unicellular organisms to entire ecosystems. Nevertheless, since in its usual form the model system cannot evolve, it differs quite fundamentally from living organisms. Automata are introduced as generalizations of Markov chains. Cellular automata are examples of regular networks or graphs; the main generic topologies are outlined. Synergetics is introduced as a generalization of GST. Finally, the salient features of evolutionary systems, which display true complexity, are described.