Geology Commons^™

Modeling Holistic Behavior Of Biological Systems For Analysis By Systems Theory, Steven M. Gollmer

Science and Mathematics Faculty Presentations

Due to the complexity of biological systems it is not possible to capture the richness of their interactions by purely studying the individual parts. Only a subset of all possible interactions between individual parts results in functional behavior. This restriction of functional possibilities is sometimes described as an emergent property of the system and emphasizes a holistic approach to the study of biological systems.

By using concepts from systems theory a systemic approach to modeling biological systems is possible. This approach is currently used successfully in such areas as niche theory and organism biology. This presentation looks at a framework …