Christian R. Kramer (1)
1. Independent Scholar, , Melbourne, Australia

Networks, Complexity and International Relations // Network Theory and Violent Conflicts. Springer Link, 2016. pp 27-63.

Abstract
Much of today’s understanding of networks and complexity originates in the natural sciences
and the emergence of chaos theory. This approach stands in contrast to the Newtonian
understanding of the world that is based on the observation of isolated phenomena and the
subsequent formulation of laws that then provide the basis for further analysis. Instead,
increasing computational capacities and Information and Communication Technologies allow
for the application of findings in complexity theory to the social sciences. Much of this has been
used, especially in military affairs, but only with limited success. This chapter deepens the
analysis by pointing out how the understanding of identity and narratives, especially in violent
conflicts, benefits from network theory. Manuel Castells’ work in this field will especially be
used to frame and explore this discourse, and to indicate how the field of international relations
can benefit from it.
Keywords
Social Network International Relation Chaos Theory Military Operation Human Affair
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental
and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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