The Complex System in Babel

  • Liliek Soelistyo English Department, Faculty of Letters, Petra Christian University Siwalankerto 121-131, Surabaya 60236, East Java, Indonesia
  • Dwi Setiawan English Department, Faculty of Letters, Petra Christian University Siwalankerto 121-131, Surabaya 60236, East Java, Indonesia
Keywords: complex system, complexity, indeterminacy, nonlinearity (chaos)

Abstract

This article discusses how the plot of Babel reflects the principles of the quantum-physic theory of complex system such as complexity, indeterminacy and non-linearity. In terms of complexity, the movie exposes more than two distinct subplots with their subcomponents. Yet, every subplot is only meaningful when it is mentally put in relation to the others. Due to its complexity, it is highly difficult for the audience and the characters of Babel to determine the meaning or the significance of a component in the story. Finally, Babel also displays the phenomena of non-linearity and chaos. Babel's non-linearity expresses both positive and negative feedback loops, with the first being dominant. This is largely responsible for the chaotic development of the plot.

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References

Ebert, R. (2007). Babel (2006). Retrieved July 28, 2007, from http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070922/REVIEWS08/70922001/1023

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Zukav, G. (1978). The dancing Wu Li masters: An overview of the new physics. The British Channel Islands: The Guernsey Press.
Published
2009-01-19
How to Cite
Soelistyo, L., & Setiawan, D. (2009). The Complex System in Babel. K@ta: A Biannual Publication on the Study of Languange and Literature, 10(2), 175-184. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.9744/kata.10.2.175-184