We propose an upgraded gravitational model which provides population counts beyond the binary (urban/non-urban) city simulations. Numerically studying the model output, we find that the radial population density gradients follow power-laws where the exponent is related to the preset gravity exponent γ. Similarly, the urban fraction decays exponentially, again determined by γ. The population density gradient can be related to radial fractality and it turns out that the typical exponents imply that cities are basically zero-dimensional. Increasing the gravity exponent leads to extreme compactness and the loss of radial symmetry. We study the shape of the major central cluster by means of another three fractal dimensions and find that overall its fractality is dominated by the size and the influence of γ is minor. The fundamental allometry, between population and area of the major central cluster, is related to the gravity exponent but restricted to the case of higher densities in large cities. We argue that cities are shaped by power-law proximity. We complement the numerical analysis by economics arguments employing travel costs as well as housing rent determined by supply and demand. Our work contributes to the understanding of gravitational effects, radial gradients, and urban morphology. The model allows to generate and investigate city structures under laboratory conditions.

 

Singularity cities
Yunfei Li, Diego Rybski, Jürgen P. Kropp

Environment and Planning B: Urban Analytics and City Science

Source: journals.sagepub.com

The arts are one of the most complex of human endeavours, and so it is fitting that a special issue on Complex Systems in Aesthetics and Arts is being published. As the editors of this special issue, we would like to thank the reviewers of the submitted papers for their hard work in making this issue possible, as well as the authors who submitted their work and were very responsive to the comments of the reviewers and editors.

The word complexity has a specific meaning in the context of “complex systems” research, as the study of systems made of many components—not in themselves necessarily complex—that through loosely coupled, local interactions generate complex, emergent behaviours. Such systems have the potential to act as the basis for the production of artworks, whether entirely computer generated or as a result of a cocreative system between humans and computers. Such art might make its impact through the intrinsic interest of the complex behaviour in the system, by representing, exploring, or connoting some worldly aspect of complexity, or by using complex systems as a way of exploring a space of possible works. Furthermore, complex systems research has the potential to simulate emergent processes in the artworld, such as the interaction between artists, audiences, and critics, or the development of aesthetic ideas or artistic fashions over time.

 

Complex Systems in Aesthetics and Arts
Juan Romero, Colin Johnson, and Jon McCormack

Complexity
Volume 2019, Article ID 9836102, 2 pages

Source: www.hindawi.com