System Effects

Exploring the flaws in social science theories, Robert Jervis employs complexity theory to illustrate the interconnectedness of our world. He argues that actions often lead to unpredictable and unintended consequences, as evidenced by examples like airport security measures and forest management practices. Jervis also examines historical events, such as the Cold War and World War I, to demonstrate how individual decisions can collectively lead to significant outcomes, challenging the notion that the sum of actions equals their overall impact.