"Complexity is a COMPONENT of the aggregate mental response that arises
(in a given interval of time) in the human mind(s) to sensory- and
memory-based stimuli. This response stems from purposeful inquiry into a
SYSTEM being observed by the human presence (singular or plural). In
particular, it is that COMPONENT which recognizes, however dimly, that the
mind of the observer is not able to construct (using ordinary methods) a
comprehensive model (adequate for effecting desired change) of that with
which it has engaged.
Complexity is also an ATTRIBUTE of the SITUATION. The latter contains (a)
the human presence, (b) the SYSTEM which is the subject of inquiry and the
object of perception, and (c) all unmentioned aspects of the ENVIRONMENT
which impact in any significant way upon the human presence and the
system."
Incorporated in the above definition, by reference, is the definition of
SYSTEM given by the greatest native-born American physical scientist, J.
Willard Gibbs:
"...any PORTION of the material universe which we choose to separate in
thought from the rest of the universe, for the purpose of considering and
discussing the various changes which may occur within it under various
conditions."
What do you think of that?
JOHN WARFIELD
Jwarfiel@osf1.gmu.edu