Philip W. Anderson (associated with social sciences and economics)

Philip W. Anderson, primarily known for his work in physics, is sometimes referenced in social sciences and economics due to his insights into complex systems and emergent phenomena. In this context, his principles suggest that social and economic systems are interconnected and evolve through interactions at multiple levels. Small changes can produce significant effects, and understanding the overall system requires considering these collective behaviors rather than just individual parts. His ideas encourage analyzing societies and economies as dynamic, adaptive networks where patterns emerge from the interplay of many agents, highlighting the importance of systemic thinking in social sciences.