Complexity Theory in Political Science and Public Policy

@article{Cairney2012ComplexityTI,
  title={Complexity Theory in Political Science and Public Policy},
  author={Paul Cairney},
  journal={Political Studies Review},
  year={2012},
  volume={10},
  pages={346 - 358}
}
  • P. Cairney
  • Published 1 September 2012
  • Political Science
  • Political Studies Review
Advocates of complexity theory describe it as a new scientific paradigm. Complexity theory identifies instability and disorder in politics and policy making, and links them to the behaviour of complex systems. It suggests that we shift our analysis from individual parts of a political system to the system as a whole; as a network of elements that interact and combine to produce systemic behaviour. This article explores the use of complexity theory in public policy, highlighting a small… 

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