Complexity, as seen through the lens of Nora Bateson, embodies the intricate web of interdependencies and dynamic interactions that constitute the living systems in our world. It is the dance of variables, each in a constant state of flux, contributing to an emergent whole that defies linear simplicity. In understanding complexity, we must embrace the nuances of context, relational patterns, and the unseen threads that weave together to form the tapestry of life. It is an acknowledgment of the richness of connections—biological, ecological, social, and psychological—that define our reality, requiring a sensitive attunement to the subtleties and interrelatedness inherent in all systems, pushing us to think not just in terms of isolated components, but in the vibrant symphony of their relationships and interactions. This perspective calls for a holistic and ever-evolving comprehension, respecting the depths and layers that complexity entails.
See also: complex system, systems theory, relational process, systems thinking, double bind