Alternate Realities: Mathematical Models of Nature and Man - Hardcover

Praise for Alternate Realities Mathematical Models of Nature and Man " covers the major topics completely and accurately within the context of current knowledge. Indeed, to my knowledge, there is no book which does so nearly as completely and well." - George Leitmann, University of California, Berkeley "Surveys an extensive amount of modern mathematics introduces and outlines some of these basic modern ideas for the non-specialist." - Donald G. Saari, Northwestern University "A sophisticated and modern text on mathematical modelling much more comprehensive than any of its competitors currently on the market." - George Klir, State University of New York at Binghamton "Casti's approach is fearless in constructing conceptual mappings between reality and mathematical notions. The book is pioneering in nature." - Myron B. Allen, University of Wyoming

With a refreshingly contemporary approach, Alternate Realities: Mathematical Models of Nature and Man brings together many of the strands of modern dynamical system theory for an incisive treatment of the theory and practice of mathematical modeling. The focus is on going from the observed behavior of natural and human systems to the development of formal mathematical models of such behavior. The book probes these problems in a "user-friendly" mathematical environment. The chapters discuss model-making in biology, cognitive processes, ecological and natural resource systems, fluid flow, evolution, artistic forms, games of chance and other engaging, real-world topics. These subjects are approached using such system-theoretic concepts as complexity, self-organization, adaptation, bifurcation, resilience, surprise, and uncertainty, together with other mathematical structures. Discussion questions, problems, and exercises follow each chapter, reinforcing and amplifying the concepts considered. Extensive notes and references are also included for every chapter. For teachers, students, and researchers in mathematical modeling and/or general applied mathematics, Alternate Realities: Mathematical Models of Nature and Man presents an exciting and refreshing approach to capturing the processes of nature and man in formal mathematical terms.