Chapter 1 Challenges of Complexity in Chemistry and Beyond

摘要

The theory of complex dynamical systems is an interdisciplinary methodology to model nonlinear processes in nature and society. In the age of globalization, it is the answer to increasing complexity and sensitivity of human life and civilization (e.g., life science, environment and climate, globalization, information flood). Complex systems consist of many microscopic elements (molecules, cells, organisms, agents, citizens) interacting in nonlinear manner and generating macroscopic order. Self-organization means the emergence of macroscopic states by the nonlinear interactions of microscopic elements. Chemistry at the boundary between physics and biology analyzes the fascinating world of molecular self-organization. Supramolecular chemistry describes the emergence of extremely complex molecules during chemical evolution on Earth. Chaos and randomness, growth and innovations are examples of macroscopic states modeled by phase transitions in critical states. The models aim at explaining and forecasting their dynamics. Information dynamics is an important topic to understand molecular self-organization. In the case of randomness and chaos, there are restrictions to compute the macrodynamics of complex systems, even if we know all laws and conditions of their local activities. Future cannot be forecast in the long run, but dynamical trends (e.g., order parameters) can be recognized and influenced ("bounded rationality"). Besides the methodology of mathematical and computer-assisted models, there are practical and ethical consequences: Be sensible to critical equilibria in nature and society (butterfly effect). Find the balance between self-organization, control, and governance of complex systems in order to support a sustainable future of mankind.