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Learning From The Octopus: How Secrets From Nature Can Help Us Fight Terrorist Attacks, Natural Disasters, And Disease (2012)

by Rafe Sagarin(Favorite Author)

3.55 of 5 Votes: 1

ISBN

0465021832 (ISBN13: 9780465021833)

languge

English

genre

Nonfiction

publisher

Basic Books

review 1: The octopus is my favorite animal for its uniqueness as an invertebrate. It is the only invertebrate that plays and uses tools, and is widely regarded as the most intelligent invertebrate known to the marine biology community.Based on the title, my expectation was that this book would capitalize on the unique characteristics of my favorite animal, analyzing and applying them to another of my favorite topics--national security policy.However, the title is a misnomer. Rather than concentrating on the octopus, the author pulls from a variety of sources in nature to discuss the importance of adaptability in thinking about security issues. While still a fascinating analysis, the title and contents of this book are not as highly matched as I hoped they woul... mored be.
review 2: This is a great introduction, by narrative, to the application of system dynamics and complex networks to technological and natural disasters for the layperson. I enjoyed the examples, despite the repetition, however if you want a detailed handling of he mechanisms inherent in network adapation and resiliency, I would recommend choosing another book. I hope there is a detailed follow-up that includes mathematical and additional socio-ecological support. less

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