One of the big ideas of modern science is that small things can sometimes have huge, irreversible consequences. These so-called tipping points crop up in all walks of life, from economics and finance to human health and the environment. Indeed, they are a fundamental feature of what scientists call complex systems.
In an effort to better understand tipping points, scientists have invested much time and effort into simulating complex systems like the climate and the economy, and then gathering data to test their models.
This work has allowed them to predict many of the tipping points that could have profound impacts on humanity, such as the collapse of ecosystems, climate patterns and trade networks. These models can even help identify steps to avoid these disasters (although whether humans will take these steps is another question).
