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Hypernetworks in the science of complex systems

Johnson’s book develops a new mathematical theory for representing the multilevel dynamics of systems. These complex systems are typically socio-technical with users, designer and clients all actively engaging with innovative technologies. Currently the analysis of these complex systems at microlevels is seldom formally integrated with theories at macrolevels, obscuring inconsistencies and flaws in the associated models. The book presents the details of Johnson’s approach through a theory of hypernetworks for multilevel systems design. The ideas presented in the book have been widely influential during the twenty years of their development. In 2009 the European Commission published an Expert Report, co-authored by Johnson, on ‘Complex Systems Science’ (Johnson, J. H., Bourgine, P., Hales, D., ‘Complex Systems Science: Expert Consultation Report’, European Commission, DG Information Society & Media, Brussels, December 2009). This concludes that “creating a formalism for multilevel systems of systems of systems and demonstrating its applicability is on the critical path for science. It is necessary if not sufficient to make progress in many domains. It requires an essential paradigm shift for complex systems science and ICT.” The report resulted in a € 22 million EU research programme. Johnson’s book is already contributing to the € 2M TOPDRIM (Topology Driven Methods in Complex Systems), a project in this programme. The book integrates Johnson’s new approach to complexity through multilevel systems with both policy making and design. Policy is conceptualised as “design and planning the future” and the book sets the scene for the argument that “policy design” is a new area of design research and practice. This is further developed in an invited paper, by Johnson and Cook, to the 2014 Complex Systems Design & Management Conference.

The book is the result of Johnson’s research over the last two decades. During its lengthy genesis, the ideas and theories, which are comprehensively presented here for the first time, have been extremely influential in framing research and informing research policy in complexity and design. Johnson has given many invited presentations and workshops to academics and policy makers ranging across disciplines from design, engineering, computing and social science. The extended period for debate and critical reflection on scope, intention and methods has been essential in developing this mature expression of Johnson’s innovative models and methods.