DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.worlddev.2020.105106

Summary
The article argues that the Covid-19 pandemic presents a highly complex crisis that requires policymakers to adopt a perspective rooted in complexity theory to understand the difficulties inherent in sensemaking and learning processes. The pandemic and subsequent containment policies have resulted in non-linear and unpredictable outcomes, which are highly dependent on the initial states of social systems and the behavioral rules governing the actions and interactions of agents within those systems. As a result, decision-making processes in this context are inherently inaccurate and short-sighted.

However, the article also highlights the need for policymakers to embed complexity thinking in decision-making processes and presents a roadmap for learning based on a flexible and adaptive approach, locally optimal solutions, and international cooperation. The authors argue that policymakers should recognize the limits of their knowledge and embrace uncertainty, continually adapt to new information, and engage in ongoing learning and evaluation. They also stress the importance of transparent data sharing and international cooperation to ensure that decision-making processes are informed by the best available evidence and expertise.

Relevance for Complex Systems Knowledge
The paper makes a compelling case for adopting the paradigm of complexity in tackling one of the most pressing issues humanity has faced in recent years. The paper outlines a roadmap for policy decision making during the Covid-19 pandemic, using a complex systems approach.
It shows policymakers how this approach helps to manage uncertainty and avoid policy paralysis.

Point of Strength
The paper suggests a roadmap for policy decisions on non-linear-phenomena based on flexibility, adaptability, transparency, international cooperation, and local optimal solutions.
During lessons, often, teachers refer to examples that involve many people hoping that they will recall the students' direct experience to ignite their interest. The object of this paper, the Covic-19 pandemic, is a shared experience in a global context. Are the continuous new rules and protocols during the Covid-19 pandemic a sign of policymakers' adaptability or the consequence of trial and error?.