What Do Complex Adaptive Systems Look Like and What Are the Implications for Innovation Policy?

Andrew Hall () and Norman Clark ()
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Norman Clark: Open University

No 2009-046, MERIT Working Papers from United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT)

Abstract: This paper explores the use of complex adaptive systems theory in development policy analysis using a case study drawn from recent events in Uganda. It documents the changes that took place in the farming system in Soroti district during an outbreak of African cassava mosaic virus disease (ACMVD) and the subsequent decline in cassava production - the main staple food in the area. Resultant adaptation impacts are analysed across cropping, biological, economic and social systems each of which operate as an interlinked sub-system. The policy implications of this story suggest a policy agenda that recognises adaptation capacity as the life blood of complex adaptive systems. Since these types of systems are found in all realms of human activity, it follows that strengthening this capacity is a key developmental priority that requires linking together new configurations of actors and resources to tackle an ever-changing set of contexts.

Keywords: Complex Adaptive Systems; Innovation Policy; Uganda; Cassava; Adaptation Capacity; Smallholder Production; Policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: N57 O13 O31 Q16 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2009
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Journal Article: What do complex adaptive systems look like and what are the implications for innovation policy? (2010)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:unm:unumer:2009046

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