Mainzer K. Thinking in Complexity. The Comp. Dynamics...5ed 2007

Textbook in PDF format

This book studies complexity and nonlinearity across a diverse range of applications. Much of the book revolves around organic evolution and the evolution of a sentient mind. And how complexity analysis might aid in the understanding of these fields. Not the least in devising deeper forms of artificial intelligence.So intriguing techniques like cellular automata and neural networks are studied. There is a fair amount of speculation as to how these and other topics might ultimately relate to sentience or consciousness. But the musings are grounded in solid science. Like that of a Hopfield system or a Boltzmann machine. This 4th edition is a good reflection of the boundaries of our knowledge.
Introduction: From Linear to Nonlinear Thinking
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Matter
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Life
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Mind–Brain
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Computability
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Artificial Life and Intelligence
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Economies
Complex Systems and the Evolution of Human Culture and Society
Epilogue on Future, Science, and Ethics