A complex system consists of a multiplicity of elements connected with one another through local links and clusterings. Within it occur dynamic and recurrent interactions and each element responds to the combined input of its neighbours according to fairly simple rules. The effect of these patterns of mutual influence is the appearance over time of complex, but stable configurations, known as 'strange attractors'. Their approximate shapes reflect characteristics of the system the nature and diversity of the interacting elements and the extent to which they are connected. The actual combination is determined by features of the environment in which the interactions take place.
Snowflakes are one example of naturally occurring 'strange attractors'.
Their hexagonal shape is constant for all snowflakes and is governed by chemical rules for the molecular combination of freezing water. The unique beauty of each specific snowflake captures the specific environmental conditions in which it is formed. In particular I am trying that the 'optimal' community is one which is able to adapt effectively to external changes and to sustain its own forms of collective organisation and governance. This state is achieved when a system reaches and maintains itself at the 'edge of chaos'.