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Complexity Theory in the Study of Space and Place

Author

Listed:
  • Steven Manson

    (Department of Geography, University of Minnesota, 414 Social Sciences Building, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA)

  • David O'Sullivan

    (School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand)

Abstract

Researchers across disciplines apply complexity theory to issues ranging from economic development to earthquake prediction. The breadth of applications speaks to the promise of complexity theory, but there remain a number of challenges to be met, particularly those related to its ontological and epistemological dimensions. We identify a number of key issues by asking three questions. Does complexity theory operate at too general a level to enhance understanding? What are the ontological and epistemological implications of complexity? What are the challenges in modeling complexity? In answering these questions, we argue that, although complexity offers much to the study of place and space, research in these areas has a number of strengths that enhance complexity research.

Suggested Citation

  • Steven Manson & David O'Sullivan, 2006. "Complexity Theory in the Study of Space and Place," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 38(4), pages 677-692, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:38:y:2006:i:4:p:677-692
    DOI: 10.1068/a37100
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. R White & G Engelen, 1993. "Cellular Automata and Fractal Urban Form: A Cellular Modelling Approach to the Evolution of Urban Land-Use Patterns," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 25(8), pages 1175-1199, August.
    2. Tesfatsion, Leigh, 2001. "Introduction to the special issue on agent-based computational economics," Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Elsevier, vol. 25(3-4), pages 281-293, March.
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    Cited by:

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    2. An, Li, 2012. "Modeling human decisions in coupled human and natural systems: Review of agent-based models," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 229(C), pages 25-36.
    3. Marco Maretto & Barbara Gherri & Daniela Maiullari & Chiara Vernizzi & Greta Pitanti & Chiara Finizza & Alice Monacelli, 2023. "Environmental Urban Morphology: A Multidisciplinary Methodology for the Analysis of Public Spaces in Dense Urban Fabrics," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(23), pages 1-18, December.
    4. He, Zheng & Rayman-Bacchus, Lez & Wu, Yiming, 2011. "Self-organization of industrial clustering in a transition economy: A proposed framework and case study evidence from China," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 40(9), pages 1280-1294.
    5. Scott G Ortman & José Lobo & Michael E Smith, 2020. "Cities: Complexity, theory and history," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 15(12), pages 1-24, December.

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