Complexity for Policymakers: An Introduction to Complex Systems Prof. Dr. Feroz Ali

In this video, Prof. Dr. Feroz Ali, introduces the concept of complexity theory as an emerging, maturing science with significant potential. It explains that complexity theory is a conglomeration of various sciences, including physics, mathematics, biology, economics, and policymaking, aiming to find a universal theory by bringing together social and physical sciences. The discussion highlights that traditional approaches are insufficient for understanding complex systems, which are characterized by non-linearity, interconnectivity, and self-organization, and that even Nobel Prizes in physics now recognize their importance. Prof. Feroz illustrates these concepts through examples such as the murmuration of starlings and the NHS study on obesity, demonstrating how simple rules can lead to complex collective behavior and how interconnected factors influence outcomes in unexpected ways. The talk emphasizes the practical relevance of complexity theory in fields like public policy and organizational management, especially in an increasingly interconnected and crisis-prone world.

0:35 - The Backstory on Lawyers Learning Complexity
1:50 - Complexity – A science in the making
2:40 – Complexity in Policy Making and Drafting Laws
4:20 – Nobel Academy recognizes Complex Systems
5:00 – Definition of Complexity
6:50 – Complexity helps to understand things at the interface of different disciplines
7:50 – Introduction to the field of Complexity and why is it important
8:45 – Video: Murmuration of Starlings
15:40 – Illustration of a Complex Adaptive System (CAS)
18:20 – Definition of a Complex Adaptive System
21:00 – Ingredients of Complex Adaptive System
26:30 – Non-linearity and Population Growth: When will we reach 16 Billion?
31:20 – Strategy and Prediction
40:30 – Video: Ants v Humans: Problem Solving    • Ants Vs Humans: Problem Solving Skills  
45:00 – Collective intelligence
46:25 – What causes obesity?
54:00 – Why Complexity is important now
56:00 – Polycrisis – Russia-Ukraine war and bread prices in Egypt
57:30 – Complexity helps us to understand interconnectivity
58:00 – How Uber harnessed public opinion to change laws
1:00:00 – Complexity framework for regulating AI (The Coming Wave, Chaos Kings)
1:01:08 – Evolutionary economists, crude and carbon footprint
1:04:30 – Complexity takes a holistic view of the world
1:09:00 – Complexity score – Lawmaking and impact assessment
1:12:25 – Consultancy companies and Complexity