ComplexityPod

ComplexityPod

ComplexityPod follows researchers at Western University's Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) Lab as we explore the application of complexity theory and systems thinking across disciplines. Over vast diversity in academic fields, methodologies, and domain expertise, our common thread is curiosity about the ways that nonlinear dynamics and systemic thinking invite us to understand and respond to our world.

Episodes

#10 — At the Intersections — July 18, 2026

July 18, 2026 · Science

On using biological and technological signals—from children's brainwaves to AI text—to understand health outcomes and approaches to learning.

#9 — Transhumance systems integration, AMOC boundary crisis, chaotic transients

July 14, 2026 · Science

On integrating social and ecological components of transhumance, boundary crises in ocean circulation, and a new principle for self-organization in complex systems.

#8 — At the Intersections — July 11, 2026

July 11, 2026 · Education

On the connections between tools and human action, covering technological improvisation, online identity, carbon abatement's financial impact, and terrorism.

#7 — Belief as structural system, CAS self-correction, AI failure propagation

July 7, 2026 · Science

On belief as a structural system that organizes society, the conditions for self-correction in complex systems, and how AI failures can propagate and escalate.

#6 — At the Intersections — July 4, 2026

July 4, 2026 · Science

Applying a systems perspective to understand constraints in professional training, neural coordination between partners, and classification in astronomy and psychology.

#5 — Digital twins: cyber-social infrastructure, new Koopman framework

June 30, 2026 · Science

On the evolution of digital twins into decision infrastructures, alongside developments in nonlinear dynamics, multi-robot systems, and systems thinking.

#4 — At the Intersections — June 27, 2026

June 27, 2026 · Science

An examination of the clinical, social, and structural barriers to HIV prevention for women, alongside research into healthcare equity and neurodegeneration.

#3 — Morphogenesis-Emergence-Adaptation model, Dynamical systems modeling, Complex network modeling

June 22, 2026 · Science

An overview of theoretical models for complex systems, including how neuronal morphogenesis may generate adaptive behavior and how simulations model social contracts.

#2 — At the Intersections — June 20, 2026

June 20, 2026 · Science

A review of inconsistent definitions of 'coercion' in public health, plus findings on EdTech evaluation, hepatitis C, brain science, and cosmic molecules.

#1 — At the Intersections — June 13, 2026

June 13, 2026 · Science

New research uses modeling to project the financial impact of hailstorms, the health effects of workplace autonomy, and outcomes in medicine and psychology.