Exploring the science of complexity: ideas and implications for development and humanitarian efforts

Despite the complexity and interconnectedness of problems faced in humanitarian and development work, this research believes they are often approached in an overly simplistic manner, informed by linear ways of thinking. The paper attempts to draw on the science of complexity to outline an alternative approach to analysing and understanding these problems. It also looks to explore and explain ten key concepts of complexity science and considers their implications for development and humanitarian work.

It concludes that:

• complexity requires a shift in attitudes that would not necessarily be welcome to many working in northern agencies
  
• what is likely in the short to medium term is that complexity can support a better awareness as to exactly why development and humanitarian work is so problematic, challenging and hard
  
• the financial and political costs of bringing such a framework to bear on development and humanitarian problems are far from trivial
  
• complexity science can enable those thinking about and working on these problems to better understand and adapt to the complexities of the real world.