Comparing chaos and complexity : the quest for knowledge

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:The question of what it means to say one knows something, or has knowledge ofsomething, triggered an epistemological study after the nature of knowledge and itsacquisition. There are many different ways in which one can go about acquiringknowledge, manydifferent frameworks that one can use to search after truth.Because most real systems about which one could desire knowledge (organic, social,economic etc.) are non-linear, an understanding of non-linear systems is important forthe process of acquiring knowledge. Knowledge exhibits the characteristics of adynamic, adaptive system, and as such could be approached via a dynamic theory ofadaptive systems. Therefore, chaos theory and complexity theory are two theoretical(non-linear) frameworks that can facilitate the knowledge acquisition process.As a modernist instrument for acquiring knowledge, chaos theory provides one withdeterministic rules that make mathematical understanding of non-linear phenomenaa biteasier, but it is limited in that it can only provide one with certain knowledge up until the(system's) next bifurcation (i.e. when chaos sets in). After this, it is near impossible topredict what a chaotic system will do.Complexity theory, as a postmodern tool for knowledge acquisition, gives one insight intothe dynamic, self-organising nature of the non-linear systems around one. By analysingthe global stability complex systems produce during punctuated equilibrium, one canlearn much about how these systems adapt, evolve and survive.Complexity and chaos, therefore, together can provide one with a useful framework forunderstanding the nature and workings of non-linear systems. However, it should beremembered that every observer of knowledge does so out of his/her own personalframework of beliefs, circumstances and history, and that knowledge therefore cannever be 100 percent objective. Knowledge and truth can never be entirely relative either, however, for this would meanthat all knowledge (and thereby all opposing claims and statements) is equally correct ortrue. This is clearly not possible. What is possible, though, is the fulfilling andsuccessful pursuit of knowledge for the sake of the journey of learning andunderstandi ng.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University