The dynamics of structural and functional complexity across the lifespan
1Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA. slh343@psu.edu
Nonlinear Dynamics, Psychology, and Life Sciences
|March 16, 2007
Summary
Human development involves increasing system complexity, leading to greater subsystem independence. Aging, however, is characterized by a loss of this complexity.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Complexity Science
- Gerontology
Background:
- Human lifespan involves intricate physiological development and aging processes.
- Understanding these processes requires examining both structural and functional complexity.
- Existing theories often focus on specific aspects rather than a unified complexity-based view.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present human lifespan as a continuous increase in structural complexity.
- To link increased structural complexity with enhanced physiological subsystem independence.
- To explore the rise and subsequent fall of functional complexity during aging.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of human physiological development and aging through the lens of complexity.
- Application of nonlinear dynamics concepts to model lifespan changes.
- Examination of structural and functional complexity at different life stages.
Main Results:
- Human lifespan is characterized by a progressive increase in structural complexity.
- Early lifespan shows increased functional complexity and subsystem independence.
- Aging is associated with a decline in both structural and functional complexity.
Conclusions:
- A complexity-based framework offers a unified view of human development and aging.
- Nonlinear dynamics provide valuable tools for understanding lifespan complexity changes.
- The theory highlights a shift from increasing to decreasing complexity as a hallmark of aging.
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