Journal on Policy & Complex Systems Volume 1, Number 2, Fall 2014 | Page 167

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wants to demonstrate his framework with diverse examples but perhaps more of the detail could have been footnoted , or less examples could have been used , giving more space to focus on the framework per se .
Conclusion

This book would be of considerable

value to those interested in how complexity-based policy and historical analysis might work - from historical roots to future possible trajectories and scenarios . It is written in clear language and should be understandable to the general reader , with an interest in contemporary global political economy , with or without a background in complexity .
As a computer scientist ���� a background in complexity and agent-based modelling , I started the book with a degree of trepidation . Yet , interestingly , I could appreciate the historical analysis and overall framework because Root was using a vocabulary I understood . Consequently , I view this as a true crossover book demonstrating how a complexity perspective can provide language and concepts allowing currently distinct disciplines to communicate meaningfully . This is a accomplishment .
Throughout the book numerous ideas jumped out as potential hypotheses for agent-based modelling work . The agentbased modelling community has tended to focus on micro-interactions , at the level of individuals , leaving the bigger global political context less well addressed . Those coming from the algorithmic and mathematical side of complexity should not avoid this book if they are at all interested in world affairs . It should be viewed as source material to engage with and perhaps as a set of challenges to address . There is a role for models that could capture some of the implications of Root ’ s ideas beyond the existing literature . In this context modellers should not be in the “ prediction business ” but the “ implications of assumptions and policy options ” business .
Overall , what comes through in the book is thoughtful breadth and humility that comes from deep knowledge and experience of a subject area that has been something lacking in many complexity circles .
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