How does the immune system organize itself to recognize and repel agents of infectious disease? How has the complex instinctive behavior of animals evolved?  How does a city like New York or Tokyo manage to deliver food, medicine, clothing, and other essentials to millions of inhabitants without breaking down?  What are the common characteristics of these and other complex systems that allow them to "learn"—to adapt and survive? This is one of the most challenging and intriguing mysteries confronting us today.

The inventor of genetic algorithms, and one of the pioneers of the new science of complexity, John H. Holland has been at the center of the rapidly developing field of complex adaptive systems (cas) since its inception. Combining observations from disciplines as diverse as economics, immunology, ecology, neuroscience, game theory, and political thought, Holland provides powerful insight into how complexity emerges and adapts.

Cosponsored by : Department of Accountancy, Department of Business Administration, Department of Cell and Structural Biology, Department of Chemistry, Department of Computer Science, Department of Entomology, Department of General Engineering, Department of Molecular and Integrative Biology, Department of Philosophy, Center for Complex Systems Research, Computer Science/Artificial Intelligence Steering Committee, Office of Organizational Research