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Emergence
288 pages, 2002
science & nature
1064 books
technology
392 books
philosophy
711 booksExplaining why the whole is sometimes smarter than the sum of its parts, Johnson presents surprising examples of feedback, self-organization, and adaptive learning.
How does a lively neighborhood evolve out of a disconnected group of shopkeepers, bartenders, and real estate developers? How does a media event take on a life of its own? How will new software programs create an intelligent World Wide Web?
In the coming years, the power of self-organization -- coupled with the connective technology of the Internet -- will usher in a revolution every bit as significant as the introduction of electricity. Provocative and engaging, Emergence puts you on the front lines of this exciting upheaval in science and thought.
In 'Emergence', Steven Johnson explores the concept of emergence, which is the idea that simple components can self-organize to create complex systems. This concept can be seen in everything from ant colonies to city neighborhoods. It's a fascinating look into how the world around us works.
Johnson shows us that self-organization is a powerful force. It's not always about top-down control. Sometimes, the most effective systems are those that allow individual components to interact and organize themselves. This can be a game-changer in how we approach problem-solving and innovation.
Feedback plays a crucial role in emergence. Johnson explains that feedback loops allow systems to learn from their mistakes and adapt. This is how complex systems evolve and improve over time. It's a great reminder of the importance of feedback and adaptation in our own lives.
One of the most interesting parts of 'Emergence' is how Johnson applies the concept to technology. He suggests that the internet, with its decentralized structure and user-generated content, is a prime example of an emergent system. This gives us a new perspective on the digital world we interact with every day.
Finally, 'Emergence' isn't just about understanding the world - it's about applying these concepts in our own lives. Johnson encourages us to see the potential for emergence in our own communities, workplaces, and even our personal lives. It's a call to action to embrace complexity and self-organization.
Quotes 5
Emergence is a book that will change the way you see the world. It's a brilliant exploration of how complex systems can arise from simple interactions.
Malcolm Gladwell - Journalist, AuthorSteven Johnson's Emergence is a fascinating read. It's a deep dive into the patterns and systems that shape our lives.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderEmergence by Steven Johnson is a must-read. It's a thought-provoking exploration of complex systems and how they evolve.
Elon Musk - Tesla CEOSteven Johnson's Emergence is a fascinating exploration of how simple systems can give rise to complex behavior. It's a book that will make you think differently about the world.
Mark Zuckerberg - Facebook CEOEmergence by Steven Johnson is a game-changer. It's a deep dive into the world of complex systems and how they evolve.
Tim Ferriss - Entrepreneur, Author