Karoline Wiesner (University of Potsdam) “Information entropy in complex systems”

Abstract:

I begin with an introduction to the nature of complex systems. From a foundational perspective, I will present a systematic description of their features. This will be followed by a brief discussion of the role of information theory in the analysis of complex systems. In particular, we distinguish between information processing — in the sense of encoding and transmitting a symbolic representation — and the formation of correlations (pattern formation / self-organisation). I will give our perspective on why information theory is a prevalent tool in the study of complex systems. If time permits, I will give an outlook on current, unpublished work in this area.