Attractors, Bifurcations, & Chaos

The first part of this book is an introduction to mathematical methods in modern nonlinear dynamics and deals with differential equations. Phenomena such as bifurcations and deterministic chaos are given considerable emphasis, both in the methodological part, and in the second part, containing various applications in economics and in regional science. Coexistence of attractors and the multiplicity of development paths in nonlinear systems are central topics. The applications focus on issues such as business cycles, oligopoly, interregional trade dynamics, and economic development theory.

1 Introduction.- 2 Differential Equations: Ordinary.- 3 Differential Equations: Partial.- 4 Iterated Maps or Difference Equations.- 5 Bifurcation and Catastrophe.- 6 Monopoly.- 7 Duopoly and Oligopoly.- 8 Business Cycles: Continuous Time.- 9 Business Cycles: Continuous Space.- 10 Business Cycles: Discrete Time.- 11 Dynamics of Interregional Trade.- 12 Development: Increasing Complexity.- 13 Development: Multiple Attractors.- References.- List of Figures.

From the reviews of the second edition:

"Its unifying theme is the analysis of economic dynamics when we drop the assumptions of linearity and use the results of recently developing nonlinear dynamic science. ... the book is carefully organized and written in a friendly style. It is interesting and smooth reading. ... It is useful to graduate students, researchers and academics ... . The book is written in a readable fashion, all details are explained clearly. Therefore, the book is a must for anyone interested in nonlinear economic dynamics." (Akio Matsumoto, Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, Vol. 58, 2005)