THE EVOLUTION OF COMPLEXITY

During the history of the universe, complexity has grown in a tremendous way, from elementary particles, via atoms, molecules, living cells, multicellular organisms, plants, and animals to human beings and sophisticated societies. This book reviews the newests concepts proposed by the diverse theories of evolution, self-organisation, general systems, cybernetics and the complex adaptive systems. The articles provide insights into the origin of mind, language and culture, as wel als their practical applications in areas such as management and system design.