ABSTRACT

Chaos and complexity are the new buzz words in both science and contemporary society. The ideas they represent have enormous implications for the way we understand and engage with the world. Complexity Theory and the Social Sciences introduces students to the central ideas which surround the chaos/complexity theories. It discusses key concepts before using them as a way of investigating the nature of social research. By applying them to such familiar topics as urban studies, education and health, David Byrne allows readers new to the subject to appreciate the contribution which complexity theory can make to social research and to illuminating the crucial social issues of our day.

chapter |13 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|21 pages

Understanding the Complex

chapter 2|19 pages

The Reality of the Complex

The complexity of the real

chapter 4|17 pages

Analysing Social Complexity

chapter 5|18 pages

Complex Spaces

Regions, cities and neighbourhoods in a complex world

chapter 8|18 pages

Complexity and Policy

The limits to urban governance

chapter 9|11 pages

Conclusion