complexity theory

a field that studies nonlinear systems with very large numbers of interacting variables using mathematical modeling and computer simulation. In general, it proposes that such systems are too complex to be accurately predicted but are nevertheless organized and nonrandom. Complexity theory has important applications in such fields as ecology, epidemiology, finance, and information science. See also chaos theory; dynamic systems theory.

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Psychology term of the day

January 31st 2025

somatosensory system

the parts of the nervous system that serve perception of touch, vibration, pain, temperature, and position (see somatosense). Nerve fibers from receptors for these senses enter the dorsal roots of the spinal cord and ascend mainly through tracts in the dorsal columns to the ventroposterior nuclei of the thalamus, from which they are relayed (directly or indirectly) to the somatosensory areas of the parietal cortex. Also called somatic sensory system.