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Applied catastrophe theory in the social and biological sciences

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Abstract

Catastrophe theory is a mathematical theory which, allied with a new and controversial methodology, has claimed wide application, particularly in the biological and the social sciences. These claims have recently been heatedly opposed. This article describes the debate and assesses the merits of the different arguments advanced.

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  1. Mathematics Department, Monash University, Clayton, Australia

    M. A. B. Deakin

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Deakin, M.A.B. Applied catastrophe theory in the social and biological sciences. Bltn Mathcal Biology 42, 647–679 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02460985

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