Networks in our cells and around us

Peter Csermely

The initial part of the lecture gives a concise summary of the three major general features of networks: small-worldness, scale-freeness and nestedness. Weak links stabilize all complex systems. The main part of the lecture shows the validity of this concept in all areas of science. Water-induced weak links in and around proteins help them to change. Protein-induced weak links help the changes of cells and their evolution. The symmetry of our face reflects the internal stability level of our cells. A beautiful, almost symmetrical face shows an optimal mix of stability and change. A forest is a tight ecosystem, where trees are weakly linked and supported by fungi below the earth. A society is stabilized by the small talk and gossip of women. Vice versa, women become psychically stabilized by the cooperative weak links they build. Weak links are necessary for innovations in a society and may only develop if the society has tolerance and trust. Weak links are our investment for the future.

About the lecturer