ABSTRACT
Cities, and social systems generally, have long been recognized as having basic, non-linear, dynamic properties in which the decisions of their human actors play an essential role. Until recently, however, the conceptual and mathematical foundations for a substantive, scientific inquiry within that context have been lacking. But this situation is changing rapidly with advances in our understanding of open systems, on the one hand, and of the nature of the human decision processes on the other. The main objectives of this book are first, to present an exposition of ongoing research in the fields of non-linear dynamic systems and cognitive science as they relate to urban and regional analysis, and second, to draw attention to the broader implications and potential benefits that may derive from a synergistic joining of these two powerful lines of research. The authors of this volume present their individual perceptions. That there are differences should come as no surprise, for this is a burgeoning field in which there is a healthy ferment.
