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Strategies of Dynamic Complexity Management

Author

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  • Helena Knyazeva

    (National Research University Higher School of Economics (Russia))

Abstract

The modern theory of complex systems changes our view of historical processes, accompanied by uncertainties, instabilities and ambiguities. The knowledge of this theory allows us to master a system or holistic thinking, and to understand the laws of functioning and growth of not just structural, but dynamic complexity. Uncertainties and chaotic elements that indicate any state of crisis are not only negative factors that we should beware of and not without fear to worry about them. We can learn to manage them and use them in the way of renewal of social systems, producing innovations. The strategic vision of complex systems evolution becomes an effective tool for decision making and scenarios planning based on our participatory activities with alternative futures. The article examines the case of Shell Corporation, which has been using scenario thinking technologies since the early 1970s, which has given it incredible competitive advantages and incentives for rapid growth and transformation into an international energy giant.

Suggested Citation

  • Helena Knyazeva, 2020. "Strategies of Dynamic Complexity Management," Foresight and STI Governance (Foresight-Russia till No. 3/2015), National Research University Higher School of Economics, vol. 14(4), pages 34-45.
  • Handle: RePEc:hig:fsight:v:14:y:2020:i:4:p:34-45
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    File URL: https://foresight-journal.hse.ru/data/2021/01/17/1344204956/3-Knyazeva-34-45.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Charles B. Keating & Polinpapilinho F. Katina, 2019. "Complex system governance: Concept, utility, and challenges," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 36(5), pages 687-705, September.
    2. Wilkinson, Angela & Kupers, Roland & Mangalagiu, Diana, 2013. "How plausibility-based scenario practices are grappling with complexity to appreciate and address 21st century challenges," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 80(4), pages 699-710.
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    Cited by:

    1. Dmitry Katalevsky, 2023. "New Governance Approaches to Prevent the Collapse of Complex Socioeconomic Systems," Foresight and STI Governance (Foresight-Russia till No. 3/2015), National Research University Higher School of Economics, vol. 17(3), pages 56-67.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    foresight; non-linearity; uncertainty; participatory futures; synergy; complex system; holism; emergence; scenario planning; alternative futures;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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