#47 Bar-Yam on Complex Systems and the War on Values

<p>During this thought provoking episode, Prof. <a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaneerbaryam/">Yaneer Bar-Yam</a> discusses the nature of complex systems and complexity science. Our discussion covers the cacophony of signals within the information environment and how complexity science provides tools for understanding system dynamics. Prof. Bar-Yam also reports his scientific findings related to the COVID pandemic which he and his colleagues at <a href="https://necsi.edu/yaneer-bar-yam">NECSI</a> have observed. He asserts that values are emergent properties of our cultural and social systems and that values are the West's biggest vulnerability. He unpacks how our value system is being undermined. Ultimately, we are in a war of values. The conversation concludes with Prof. Bar-Yam describing what he believes is the "killer app" for today's world, which consists of a positive valued system of networked  teams of people who care about each other and who counter alienating forces. He believes that complexity science can be a a fundamental capability which undergirds global networks of intentional teams with compassionate, "can do" attitudes.</p> <p><a href= "https://information-professionals.org/episode/cognitive-crucible-episode-47"> <strong>Link to full show notes and resources</strong></a></p> <p><strong>Guest Bio</strong>: Prof. Yaneer Bar-Yam received his SB and PhD in physics from MIT in 1978 and 1984 respectively. Since the late 1980s he has contributed to founding the field of complex systems science, introducing fundamental mathematical rigor, real world application, and educational programs for new concepts and insights of this field. In developing new mathematical methods and in their application he has published on a wide range of scientific and real world problems ranging from cell biology to the global financial crisis.</p> <p>He has advised the Chairman’s Action Group at the Pentagon about global social unrest and the crises in Egypt and Syria, the National Security Council and the National Count