Foundations of

Modeling Coupled Human & Natural Systems

A Process- & Feedback-Oriented Approach

Garry Sotnik

January, 2021

Version: 0.4.1 (work-in-progress)

Summary: Coupled Human & Natural Systems (CHANSs) is a relatively new term created by an international group of leading environmental and social scientists to reflect the interconnected nature of human and natural systems. The underlying thread tying together this new body of research and used to conceptualize human-nature interaction and behavior is complexity/systems theory. This book introduces readers to this new and exciting field of study, to modeling and simulation in general, and specifically to five modeling approaches useful for conducting research within this new field, including Causal-Loop Diagramming, Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping, Stock & Flow Modeling, Social Network Modeling, and Multi-Agent Modeling. Through hands-on application, readers will explore a number of concepts related to modeling and complexity/systems theory, including: feedback, nonlinear dynamics, regime shifts, self-organization, self-organized criticality, emergence, the adaptive cycle, and resilience.

Citation: Sotnik, G. (January, 2021). Foundations of Modeling Coupled Human & Natural Systems: A Process- & Feedback-Oriented Approach. Manuscript retrieved from https://www.sosiel.org/education/textbook-fm_chanss