On the relations between complex systems and the factorial model of soil formation (with Discussion)

Abstract

The application of nonlinear dynamical systems (NDS) theory to pedology involves the interaction of complex systems theory, which has not yet been widely applied to field-oriented sciences such as pedology and soil science, where applications of NDS theory are recent and relatively rare. The gap between pedologists and systems theorists can be narrowed by reconsidering Hans Jenny's factors of soil formation model. The latter is an inherently holistic, systems-oriented approach and evidences a concern (in common with NDS theory) with qualitative changes in (soil) system states. Jenny's own reformulation of the original state factor model assigns a strong role to initial conditions and historical contingency, implicitly recognizing the possibilities of self-organization and deterministic chaos. Many fundamental concepts from nonlinear dynamics are thus already embedded in familiar pedologic theory, making the former more accessible to pedologists. Similarly, the links between NDS and soil state factor theory should help nonlinear systems theorists conceptualize the real-world implications and limitations of NDS theory on and in the ground.