Applied Chaos Theory: A Paradigm for Complexity

by Ali Bulent Cambel

This book differs from others on Chaos Theory in that it focuses on its applications for understanding complex phenomena. The emphasis is on the interpretation of the equations rather than on the details of the mathematical derivations. The presentation is interdisciplinary in its approach to real-life problems: it integrates nonlinear dynamics, nonequilibrium thermodynamics, information theory, and fractal geometry. An effort has been made to present the material ina reader-friendly manner, and examples are chosen from real life situations. Recent findings on the diagnostics and control of chaos are presented, and suggestions are made for setting up a simple laboratory. Included is a list of topics for further discussion that may serve not only for personal practice or homework, but also as themes for theses, dissertations, and research proposals.

Genres: Mathematics

246 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[William Schram · Rating 4 out of 5]

A. B. Çambel wrote Applied Chaos Theory in 1993. Computers are faster now, and programs are more advanced. However, we can still look back at this book and gain insights from it. I bought the book from my local Half-Price Books. It was a great deal.

The book predates Windows 95, so the author spends his time on WordPerfect, a program I never used.

The book is fascinating. Before reading the book, I heard of chaos theory through Jurassic Park, and I vaguely recall some other sources, but this book gets down and dirty with equations. There are suggestions for further reading, but they are from 1993, so I don’t know how useful they would be.

I enjoyed the book. Thanks for reading my review, and see you next time.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good overview. Worth reading.

[Lluvia Zuniga · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half is wonderful and the best introduction to chaos as I've seen. The second half was difficult to get through. Very dense.