Paul Cilliers: Theory

Paul Cilliers was South African philosopher. Explore interesting quotes on theory.

Paul Cilliers: 24 quotes0 likes

“A certain theory of representation implies a certain theory of meaning - and meaning is what we live by.”

Source: Complexity and Postmodernism (1998), p. 88; as cited by David Byrne (1999)

“At the heart of the matter… our technologies have become more powerful than our theories… We can do with technology what we cannot do with science.”

Paul Cilliers

Source: Complexity and Postmodernism (1998), p. 1-2; as cited by David Byrne (1999) in: " Complexity and Postmodernism: Book Review http://jasss.soc.surrey.ac.uk/2/2/review1.html" in JASSS Vol 2 (2)

“There is no over-arching theory of complexity that allows us to ignore the contingent aspects of complex systems. If something really is complex, it cannot by adequately described by means of a simple theory. Engaging with complexity entails engaging with specific complex systems. Despite this we can, at a very basic level, make general remarks concerning the conditions for complex behaviour and the dynamics of complex systems. Furthermore, I suggest that complex systems can be modelled.”

Paul Cilliers

Source: Complexity and Postmodernism (1998), p. ix