I What are the biggest problems in the study of complex systems?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges and practical applications of studying complex systems in nature, particularly in the context of weather prediction and active matter. Participants highlight the broadness of the topic, suggesting that specificity is needed to address significant unsolved problems effectively. Active matter systems, which self-organize, are identified as a key area of interest, with recommendations to explore relevant literature for deeper insights. The importance of statistical methods in understanding these systems is also emphasized. Overall, the conversation underscores the need for targeted research to tackle the complexities inherent in natural systems.
Tim667
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In the study of complex systems found in nature, what are the biggest unsolved problems?
What are the practical purposes of studying complex systems found in nature? And applying statistical methods to them etc.
 
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Tim667 said:
Summary:: In the study of complex systems found in nature, what are the biggest unsolved problems?

What are the practical purposes of studying complex systems found in nature? And applying statistical methods to them etc.
What have you found in your research so far? What is your definition of Complex Systems?
 
Tim667 said:
Summary:: In the study of complex systems found in nature, what are the biggest unsolved problems?

What are the practical purposes of studying complex systems found in nature? And applying statistical methods to them etc.
"complex systems found in nature" is much too broad of a category to get a useful answer, IMO. As is "biggest unsolved problems".

But I'll toss out one for consideration: Weather prediction. I'll leave the practical purpose for you to figure out.
 
DaveE said:
"complex systems found in nature" is much too broad of a category to get a useful answer, IMO. As is "biggest unsolved problems".

But I'll toss out one for consideration: Weather prediction. I'll leave the practical purpose for you to figure out.
Fair point. I'll be more specific next time. Within the study active matter, do you know at all what the biggest underlying problems here would be?
 
Tim667 said:
Within say, active matter, would you know what the biggest problems would be? As well as the practical purpose of studying such a subject
Specifically the way certain active matter systems self organise etc
 
You might benefit from reading this Reviews of Modern Physics paper on the topic (here is a link to an arxiv version if you don't have access to the RMP article). Given, that article is 8 years old now and my impression was that active matter was still a hot topic in those eight years, so much has probably happened in those eight years. I have no useful personal knowledge on the subject.

EDIT: Also, you would probably get a good idea of what people are doing by looking at the research of the authors on that review article. I recognize at least three names of very accomplished people in that field.
 
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