(Original post 10th October 2019)
In Chaos Theory (Edward Lorenz) – a branch of Fractal Theory – the Butterfly Effect is the sensitive dependence on initial conditions within a dynamic system whereby a small change, in the initial state (variable) of the system, leads to disproportionately large change in the entire system.
In his stellar book, Deep Simplicity, John Gibbins defines this dynamic as follows.
“some systems … are very sensitive to their starting conditions, so that a tiny difference in the initial ‘push’ you give them causes a big difference in where they end up, and there is feedback, so that what a system does affects its own behaviour.”
– John Gibbins
‘Deep Simplicity’
Statement: Simply put. Change one thing. Change everything!
In the context of Deep Simplicity by John Gibbins, the rational expression for race relations can be understood through the lens of complex systems, where small initial conditions can have profound impacts on the outcomes of social and economic systems. Just as Gibbins explains that systems are highly sensitive to initial inputs, race relations within a global economy are similarly subject to feedback loops.
A small shift in racial policies, social investments, or inequality can drastically alter the trajectory of race relations and their effect on the global economy. This sensitivity is captured in the rational expression, where factors such as income inequality, social spending, and entropy create a delicate balance.
If a society starts with strong, inclusive race relations, it may experience lower entropy (disorder), fostering economic productivity and reducing inequality. However, if race relations are strained, the system will naturally tend toward greater disorder, economic inefficiency, and a cycle of negative feedback.
The quote, “some systems … are very sensitive to their starting conditions, so that a tiny difference in the initial ‘push’ you give them causes a big difference in where they end up, and there is feedback, so that what a system does affects its own behaviour,” directly applies to the feedback loops in race relations.
For example, small increases in social spending (S) on education or anti-discrimination policies can lead to significant reductions in social entropy (E) and income inequality (I), positively reinforcing the system by boosting productivity and improving global economic output.
Conversely, neglect or inadequate interventions may result in higher entropy, perpetuating inequality and social disorder. Therefore, in line with Gibbins’ perspective, race relations function as a dynamic system where small changes in initial conditions—like the level of inclusion or exclusion of marginalised racial groups—can cause large, long-term shifts in economic value and social stability.
In this expression, better race relations (higher ( R )) would manifest as lower entropy (E), more equal income distribution (lower ), and potentially higher productivity (P), thus contributing positively to the global economy.
What I've read today:
Comentários