An Information-oriented Model of Multi-Scale (Feedback) Systems

TL;DR

This paper proposes a unified information-oriented framework for understanding multi-scale feedback systems, aiming to develop a general theory applicable across various complex systems domains.

Contribution

It highlights common features of multi-scale systems and introduces an information-centric perspective as a foundation for a generic theory.

Findings

Identifies core commonalities in multi-scale concepts

Emphasizes the role of information in feedback systems

Lays groundwork for a unified theory of multi-scale systems

Abstract

Multi-scale structures are prevalent in both natural and artificial systems, as they can handle increasing complexity. Several terms are employed almost interchangeably across various application domains to refer to the multi-scale concept - e.g., hierarchy, holarchy, multi-level, multi-layer, nested, embedded, micro-macro or coarse graining. While the concrete meanings behind these terms may differ slightly, several core commonalities persist across all cases. In this position paper we aim to highlight these common features of the multi-scale concept, as a preliminary basis for a generic theory of multi-scale systems. We discuss the concepts of scale and multi-scale systems in general, and then of multi-scale feedback systems in particular, focusing on the role played by information in such systems. Our long-term objective is to develop a general theory of multi-scale feedback systems, applicable across all domains dealing with complex systems.