In the context of systems behavior, complexity arises from what kind of interactions?

Complexity in systems behavior is primarily attributed to local interactions between parts that can lead to the emergence of novel patterns and behaviors. When the components of a system interact locally, their combined interactions can generate unexpected results that are not merely the sum of their individual behaviors. This is often seen in systems where simple rules governing local interactions can give rise to sophisticated and intricate behaviors at the macro level.

For example, think of how individual ants following simple rules can create complex structures like ant hills or line formations when foraging. The interactions of local components—such as ants—result in emergent properties and behaviors that are complex and adaptive.

This phenomenon is a core principle in systems thinking and is fundamental to the understanding of complex adaptive systems. It highlights how the arrangement and interaction of individual components can profoundly affect the function and outcome of the entire system.