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Published 24 March 2009
Event 23 April 2009

Complexity theory has been influential in a wide range of disciplines in the last 25 years, evolving from the physical sciences to a growing influence on the social sciences. It offers powerful metaphors for describing social processes, but is criticised for its grand theory and generalisations.

Social scientists have struggled to demonstrate complex metaphors and concepts with empirical data and micro examples. While American research has demonstrated a leaning towards replicating sophisticated mathematical models and impressive calculations that might quantify social dynamics and patterns, European work has in the main seen such attempts at measurement as futile. Instead the focus is on the form and type of patterns and dynamics in complex systems, while acknowledging the truth that such unstable entities cannot be adequately measured and predicted.

Precise measurement of complex social systems is rejected in such work, but quantitative methods can still be used to explore the characteristics of policy systems, their patterns and dynamics, and soft and evolving structures. Using this approach the lecture examines the instability of policy systems. Finally the lecture explores the applied lessons for those working in public policy practice.

Complexity in public policy: metaphors and methods
Thursday 23 April 2009 at 6.30pm
Mayfield Lecture Theatre,
University of Brighton
Falmer
Brighton BN1 9PH

Light refreshments will be served after the lecture.

All welcome - if you would like to attend please email events@brighton.ac.uk.