Book Review: CHEN, Ping; ELSNER, Wolfram; PYKA, Andreas (orgs.). The Routledge International Handbook of Complexity Economics. London: Routledge, 2021. 766 pages.

Abstract

The Routledge International Handbook of Complexity Economics, edited by Ping Chen, Wolfram Elsner, and Andreas Pyka, is a crucial work in the field of complexity economics, addressing themes such as interdisciplinarity, overcoming simplifying assumptions in traditional economics, and contemporary global challenges like climate change and inequality. The book stands out for its theoretical and methodological contributions, with the editors offering diverse perspectives: Chen focuses on economic chaos, Elsner on networks and evolutionary economics, and Pyka on innovation and sustainability. Emphasizing dynamic models and interaction among heterogeneous agents, it provides a deeper understanding of complex economic systems and contributes to the formulation of more effective public policies. While the work is a key reference, a critical analysis reveals some limitations in theoretical and practical aspects, suggesting areas for improvement in future editions.