The Ebb and Flow of Complex Systems
ENVS 341
Spring 2027
| Section:
01
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| Crosslisting:
PHYS 241 |
Complex systems are found in both human and non-human spheres, and they exhibit natural rhythms of growth and decay. Ecosystems, climate systems, and social systems are all examples of large-scale complex systems. Can we discern general principles common to systems with seemingly little in common, such as ecosystems and economies? And can we follow the time evolution of systems as they expand and collapse? These are the principal questions this course asks. The course will be divided into three sections. The structure and function of systems in general will be explored in the first part of the course, with simple examples chosen to highlight causal connections and elements common to disparate systems. Notions of feedback, inertia, boundary and scale will figure importantly from the start. Next, we will build more complicated models using principles we have established. Can we identify simplicity amidst complexity? Role-playing games will help us grasp the interplay between agency and necessity. Finally, we will turn our tools to the study of the human predicament. While systems modeling is intrinsically mathematical, and for this reason a year of calculus at any level is a course prerequisite, there will be little need for mathematics per se, as we can use systems analysis software to carry out the mathematical details of our modeling for us. Students will choose a concentration, and coursework will consist of carrying out the modeling of our chosen systems and the writing of interim and final reports. Classroom workshopping of writing will make sure everyone benefits from one another's insights and produces writing of high quality. This is a POI course. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
NSM ENVS, NSM PHYS |
| Course Format: Seminar | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Environmental Studies Minor)(Environmental Studies)(Physics Minor)(Physics) |
| SECTION 01 |
| Instructor(s): Stewart,Brian Times: ..T.R.. 02:50PM-04:10PM; Location: TBA |
| Total Enrollment Limit: 14 | | SR major: 0 | JR major: 0 | | |
| | GRAD: 0 | SR non-major: 0 | JR non-major: 0 | SO: 0 | FR: 0 |
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