Information Theory as a Basis for Studying Environmental Complexity: Some Limitations

Abstract

It has been proposed that humans need and prefer an optimal level of complexity in the urban environment. Information-theory formulations have been proposed as a means of evaluating environmental complexity. This paper considers the use of information theory as the basis for treating environmental complexity. Six information-theory concepts are evaluated: unexpectedness, structural complexity, metrical information, redundancy, message, and noise. Their implications and limitations for studying environmental complexity are specified. It is concluded that information theory does not provide a sound basis for studying environmental complexity.