Policy and Complex Systems - Volume 3 Number 1 - Spring 2017
Editor ’ s Letter
This issue of JPCS touches upon a broad set of topics . The first two papers focus on the topic of forecasting the outcome of interactions in a network . The first paper in this group , authored by Scheinert , Zia , Koliba , and Merrill , is addressing the changes in partnership networks using a bottom-up approach . The second paper , authored by Johnson , Lemasters , and Bhattacharyya , is using a network science approach to understand the changes in complex environments as diverse as classroom interactions and climate change .
The second group of papers is related to decision making in complex systems . The first paper in this group , authored by Sissa , Girdinio , and Terna uses agent-based modeling to devise plausible policies for sustainable energy policies . The paper by Givel , however , takes a theoretical approach to complex systems behavior in democratic policy theory , thus addressing the aspects of decision making in democratic political processes . Finally , the paper by Udell completes this group of papers by providing a meta-level analysis of complex systems through its “ four dimensions .” This meta-level analysis is exemplified in the context of the proper framing for resolving wicked problems .
The last paper of this issue , authored by Simoyama , offers a systematic literature review of complex systems applications . Review papers are often useful for newcomers into the field , offering a good starting point for further explorations of topics , ideas , theories , achievements , and challenges of the field under considerations . We hope you will enjoy the issue .
Mirsad Hadzikadic Editor , JCPS
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Editor ' s Note : No issues were published in 2016 .
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