Since the computer revolution, mathematics has evolved several new branches known collectively as computational math, including chaos theory, bifurcations, fractal geometry, complex dynamical systems, emergence, connectionism, and neural network theory, to name just a few. Closely related, these new theories provide novel modeling methods for all the sciences. The social sciences have been particularly enriched with new concepts, cognitive strategies, and computer-based simulation methods such as agent based models.
The first half of this talk will be a guided tour of neural networks and agent based models, illustrated with computer-graphic animations. No technical background will be assumed.
In the second half, we will apply the ideas to world cultural history and collective consciousness. This is the conceptual frame for two books by the speaker, Chaos, Gaia, Eros (1994), and Bolts from the Blue (2005).
The goal of this novel application of new math to the evolution of consciousness is to enhance our understanding of the complex dynamical system in which we live, and to improve our efforts to create a sustainable future.
Learning objectives: one may take away from this lecture:
Revised July 17, 2004 by Ralph Abraham