1. Emergence: Complex systems exhibit properties that arise from interactions among components, which cannot be deduced simply by examining individual parts.
2. Nonlinearity: Small changes can have disproportionate effects due to feedback loops and intricate interdependencies.
3. Self-Organization: Systems often develop order spontaneously through internal dynamics without centralized control.
4. Adaptation and Co-evolution: Components and systems adjust in response to environmental changes, highlighting a process of mutual influence and evolution.
5. Interdisciplinary Perspective: Complexity theory transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries, encouraging holistic and integrative approaches to understanding systems.