Psychological complexity and the cost of information processing

Abstract

Traditionally, theories of complexity used in psychology have been based on geometric, probabilistic, and algorithmic paradigms. While these have been useful in highlighting the importance of complexity for psychology, they have not, in general, addressed the relationship between complexity and processing cost. In this paper, we review some of the classic and current complexity theories in psychology and suggest that psychological complexity and processing cost can be quantified using the notion of hierarchical change. Finally, we discuss the relationship between change, complexity, and the Gestalt principles of perceptual organization.