Chaos, Complexity, and Systems

An introduction to chaos theory and the science of complex systems, told through the stories of the researchers who shaped the field. Gleick makes abstract concepts like fractals, nonlinear dynamics, and sensitive dependence on initial conditions both accessible and engaging. A foundational read for understanding unpredictability in nature, systems, and human performance.

A clear and approachable introduction to the mathematics and applications of chaos theory.

A more academic exploration of thermodynamics, dissipative structures, and the arrow of time.

Discusses how synchronization appears across nature, from fireflies to human biology.

An accessible, wide-ranging introduction to complexity science from one of the field’s leading researchers. Mitchell explains how simple rules can create intricate, unpredictable behavior across systems from ant colonies to economies. A perfect starting point for understanding the principles that link chaos theory, systems thinking, and complex adaptive systems.

A foundational text in complexity science, Holland’s Hidden Order explores how adaptive systems, whether biological, social, or technological, generate complex structures from simple rules. Holland, one of the pioneers of genetic algorithms and complex systems research at the Santa Fe Institute, shows how adaptation, feedback loops, and selection pressures create order in seemingly chaotic environments. The book is more conceptual than technical, designed for a general audience, and helps bridge fields ranging from evolution to economics. For readers interested in why societies, ecosystems, and even organizations evolve in unpredictable yet patterned ways, Holland provides a lens that pairs well with works like Perrow’s Normal Accidents and Dörner’s The Logic of Failure, but from a more constructive, bottom-up perspective.

A narrative history of the birth of complexity science, centered on the work of the Santa Fe Institute. Waldrop weaves together the stories of the scientists who bridged disciplines to understand how order and chaos interact in everything from biology to economics. Reads like a biography of an idea.

In this concise entry in Oxford’s Very Short Introductions series, John H. Holland, one of the founders of complexity science, lays out the core principles of how complex adaptive systems work. From economies and ecosystems to immune systems and neural networks, Holland shows how interactions among simple agents can generate unexpected, emergent patterns. Unlike Hidden Order, which is more exploratory and expansive, this book distills the subject into a tightly focused, accessible primer, making it a good starting point for readers who want a survey before diving into heavier works.

A seminal book on applying systems thinking to organizations. Senge outlines how “learning organizations” use feedback loops, shared vision, and mental model awareness to adapt and thrive in complex environments. While aimed at business leaders, the principles are broadly applicable to any team or group seeking long-term, sustainable improvement.

The foundational text that established systems theory as a scientific discipline. Bertalanffy presents a framework for understanding how all systems share common structures and principles. Dense and academic, but essential for anyone who wants to grasp the roots of modern systems thinking.

A comprehensive synthesis of systems thinking, biology, and sustainability. Capra and Luisi connect the dots between complex systems, the web of life, and the challenges of building a sustainable, livable future. Capra was one of John Boyd’s influences during his creation of concepts like the OODA Loop and his Patterns of Conflict strategy presentation.

A highly readable exploration of how complex patterns and intelligence emerge from simple interactions. Uses examples from ant colonies, cities, and software to show how order can arise without central control. A great entry point into complexity science for readers who prefer stories over equations.