Complex Networks: connections, measurements, and social systems

According to Carl Sagan, the beauty of a living creature is not the atoms that go into it, but the way those atoms are putted together. In our cells, atoms compose a multitude of molecules such as proteins and DNA, which coexist in a complex, mutually dependent network. Similarly, our cells themselves exist in an interdependent network of organs and nerves, and our very consciousness is thought to arise from the complex network of billions of neurons, connected by trillions of synapses.

Ecosystems are complex networks of animals eating other organisms. Some form  of social networks of packs and flocks, and humans have refined social structures into an artform with clans, nations, political parties, subcultures and Twitter hashtags. Our computers are connected in a global network, providing access to much of our combined knowledge as a species, which can also be described as a complex network. Networks are everywhere.

Since the turn of the millenium, a new understanding of these networks has begun to take form, and a new field – a science of networks – has begun to emerge. Sune Lehmann will recount the story of modern network science and will explain a few of the things we have learned. He will connect the tale of networks to big data, computational social science, and his own research on social networks.

Later, complex networks of spirits, fruit juices and dry ice will be served at the bar.

Entrance to the event is free. No registration is necessary. Doors open at 19:00.

Saturday, 17 May, 2014
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20:00
Byens Lys
Christiania

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