Title: Complexity theory and tourism policy research

Authors: Nancy Stevenson, David Airey, Graham Miller

Addresses: School of Architecture and the Built Environment, University of Westminster, 35 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5LS, UK. ' School of Management, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7HX, UK. ' School of Management, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7HX, UK

Abstract: This paper investigates applications of complexity theory in the social sphere and considers its potential contribution to enhance understanding of tourism policy making. Five concepts are identified to explore complex social circumstances and human interactions that influence policy. Social applications of complexity suggest a move towards localised and deeper studies to explore the dynamics of policy enactment in context. It suggests complexity theory might be used as a thinking tool to enable a more holistic approach to policy analysis and investigate policy in its context, considering interactions between different policies/programmes, and the implications of human agency.

Keywords: complexity theory; social science; tourism policy; tourism research; social circumstances; human interactions.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2009.024553

International Journal of Tourism Policy, 2009 Vol.2 No.3, pp.206 - 220

Received: 19 May 2008
Accepted: 25 Sep 2008
Published online: 09 Apr 2009 *

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