Module 4: Reframing Complexity

Abstract

The module "reframing complexity "invites participants to explore various access points for dealing with uncertainty, fostering a holistic perspective on complexity and encouraging a more nuanced and informed approach to navigating complex living systems.

Objective

The "Reframing complexity" module aims to empower participants to deeply understand the intricacies of living systems. Key learning goals include distinguishing between complexity and simplicity, challenging traditional views by fostering a mindset that embraces complexity, and exploring how to design resilient strategies within complex systems. The module emphasizes the role of big data and visualization tools in intervention strategies. Participants will also grasp the interconnectedness of science, praxis, data types, warm data, and AI in complex systems. The overarching objective is to enable individuals to navigate uncertainty by identifying various access points and weaving diverse perspectives into a holistic understanding of complexity. The learning objective assessment starts with the preceding MOOC and its final multiple-choice quiz. To successfully complete the MOOC, students must correctly answer at least 70 percent of the questions across all modules. During the CAS, active attendance in the live sessions with experts is required for each module. In addition, the Quest’s progress is monitored continuously in the peer-learning process and through individual discussions with the lecturers. Students are asked to contribute at least once per week during the course to the DRRS virtual community on Mighty Networks with internal-public sharing, commenting, or liking. The final learning and progress assessment step is submitting a Quest delivery, which - through all three DRRS CAS’ - builds the base for the Master design thesis, for those taking the full MAS in Regenerative Systems programme.

Content

Beginning with Eric Berlow's perspective on "The Other Side of Complexity," the module challenges conventional views and introduces alternative ways of understanding intricate systems. Fritjof Capra, a renowned figure in systems thinking, contributes to the module focusing on "Complexity Science and Systems Thinking." Participants can anticipate a deep dive into the foundations of complexity science and the principles of systems thinking. The Hinnen Brothers bring a practical dimension to the module with "Reframe It!" where participants are guided in adopting a reframed mindset towards complexity, offering tangible tools for navigating complex systems. Michael Stauffacher from ETH Zurich sheds light on the intersection of "Science and Praxis," providing valuable insights into how scientific knowledge translates into practical applications, particularly within the realm of complex systems. Nora Bateson contributes to the module focusing on "Warm Data," emphasizing the significance of contextual and relational information in understanding complexity. Participants explore how such insights contribute to a more holistic understanding of complex systems. The module further investigates the role of artificial intelligence in "When is AI Regenerative?"—examining scenarios where AI positively influences the resilience and regeneration of complex systems. Finally, the module addresses the intricate challenges involved in "Complexities of Decarbonization," providing participants with a nuanced understanding of the hurdles and considerations in transitioning to sustainable and low-carbon practices.

Resources