This podcast episode explores the role of complexity in understanding society. It discusses the concept of complexity in social systems, the stability and emergence of patterns, social change, equilibrium states, and the collective action problem. The episode also explores the role of game theory, communication, accountability, networks, and culture in cooperation. It highlights the importance of diversity in maintaining social cohesion and finding optimal solutions. Additionally, the episode discusses the importance of diversity in knowledge production and improvement, as well as the role of social movements in fostering diversity and protecting dissent. Complexity theory and evolutionary game theory are applied to understand collective behavior and social change.