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Simple mathematical models with very complicated dynamics

Nature volume 261, pages 459–467 (1976)Cite this article

A Corrigendum to this article was published on 01 July 1976

Abstract

First-order difference equations arise in many contexts in the biological, economic and social sciences. Such equations, even though simple and deterministic, can exhibit a surprising array of dynamical behaviour, from stable points, to a bifurcating hierarchy of stable cycles, to apparently random fluctuations. There are consequently many fascinating problems, some concerned with delicate mathematical aspects of the fine structure of the trajectories, and some concerned with the practical implications and applications. This is an interpretive review of them.

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Affiliations

  1. King's College Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 1ST

    Robert M. May

  2. on leave from Biology Department, Princeton University, Princeton, 08540

    Robert M. May

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  1. Robert M. May
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May, R. Simple mathematical models with very complicated dynamics. Nature 261, 459–467 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1038/261459a0

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