Metastability describes system's tendency towards instability from "summary" of Complexity by Mitchell M. Waldrop
Metastability is a concept that lies at the heart of complex systems. It describes a system's inherent tendency to be on the edge of instability - a state where any small disturbance can push it in one direction or another. Think of a ball perched on top of a hill, perfectly balanced. It could roll down the slope at any moment, depending on which way the wind blows. In the context of complex systems, metastability is what allows for sudden phase transitions - abrupt shifts from one state to another. These transitions are not predictable in the traditional sense because they are contingent on the system's current state. It's like trying to predict which way the ball will roll based on the wind's direction - there are too many variables at play to make a precise calculation. Metastability is what gives complex systems their capacity for adaptation and evolution. By existing in a state of instability, these systems can respond quickly to changes in their environment. It's as if the ball on the hill can adjust its position in an instant to avoid being blown off course. This ability to self-organize and self-regulate is what allows complex systems to thrive in dynamic and unpredictable conditions. However, metastability also comes with risks. Just as the ball on the hill can be easily tipped over, complex systems can be vulnerable to sudden and catastrophic failures. A small disturbance in one part of the system can trigger a cascade of events that destabilize the entire structure. This delicate balance between instability and resilience is what makes complex systems both fascinating and challenging to study.- Metastability captures the essence of complexity - the interplay between stability and change, order and chaos. It is a reminder that the most interesting phenomena often occur at the edge of chaos, where systems are poised to transform in ways that are as unpredictable as they are remarkable.
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