Knowledge and the modelling of complex systems

It is shown that the 'knowledge' provided by models is multi-valued and highly dependent on context; not single-valued answers but rather a statement of options, which place limits on the extent to which control can be exercised. This pushes much of the decision-making back to higher cognitive levels where objectives and values dominate. By high-lighting the potential trade-offs in any decision, complexity science can ensure a real debate about what values should be, or are being, adopted by society.