Life, the universe and emergence

Complexity theory claims to resolve the classic conflict between vitalists who believe evolution is externally caused by spirit or other vital forces and mechanists who believe evolution is bottom-up, with survival of the fittest or adaptation as the key variable. In contrast, complexity theory asserts that evolution occurs through emergence. New variables naturally develop over time. Organisms, individuals and societies self-organize, ie they do not need an outside force to guide their growth. Thus, from simple conditions emerge complex conditions. This essay explores the meaning of complexity and its implications through a review of three recent books: Roger Lewin's Complexity: Life at the Edge of Chaos; Stuart Kauffman's The Origins of Order; and Mitchell Waldrop's Complexity: the Emerging Science at the Edge of Order and Chaos.