Networks excel

A system is characterized by a network of – equal or different – parts and their organization. The more complex a system is, the more dynamic, chaotic, intense and manifold are its interactions with and between its parts and the higher is its capability to organize itself.

Traditional administrations are systems with narrow focus and low permeability oriented to reduce complexity. They are efficient in solving basic issues effectively. On the other hand, in hierarchal, rigid structures complex problems have the tendency to grow or, worse, not to be addressed at all. Traditional top-down governance models neutralize the lateral self-organization, moderation and acceleration capabilities of networked systems and therefore address complexity inadequately.

In the connected age, governance structures define themselves by the complexity of the connected system itself. Therefore, connected government rather “flows” around and through problems and it embeds them as part of the solution: Transformation and integration instead of resolution and elimination.

The Roman Empire could only flourish for centuries because of its true symbiosis with and integration of the cultures around the Mediterranean, instead of their elimination. The model can stand for the connected global republic: its golden age has just begun.