This course looks at the application of complex systems analysis to problem-solving. Concepts such as self-organization, emergence and complexity will be examined in the context of case studies of specific conflicts and how they are or are not resolved. The central text is “Thinking in Systems” by environmental scientist, Donella Meadows as well as readings from scientists, Stuart Kauffman and Gerald Edelman. Manual Lima’s, “Visual Complexity” and “The Power of Networks” will also be discussed from the artistic and aesthetic perspective. Students will be asked to research a multi-party conflict through the lens of complexity.