The sciences of design as sciences of complexity

the dynamic trait

Wenceslao J. Gonzalez

pp. 299-311

in: Hanne Andersen, Dennis Dieks, Thomas Uebel, Wenceslao J. Gonzalez, Gregory Wheeler (eds), New challenges to philosophy of science, Berlin, Springer, 2013

Abstract

The sciences of design can be analyzed as sciences of complexity. This involves taking into account the twofold complexity in science: the structural and the dynamic. Thus, the analysis can move from structural complexity to dynamic complexity. Here the focus is on the dynamic trait, which means the study of change in complex dynamics. In this regard, there are three main notions: process, evolution, and historicity. This paper draws attention to the need for historicity in human-made disciplines which include the emphasis on "activity" rather than on "behavior".