Use Assembly Theory to regulate evolving technologies

We require regulatory frameworks that evolve in lock-step with technological complexity

- RAHUL MATTHAN

Modern technologies are modular, radically interoperable and interdependent. Which is why one of the foremost challenges in regulating them is dealing with complexity. I have long argued for principle-based regulations—in the belief that, if we express it at a high enough level of abstraction, our regulatory intent will be enforceable regardless of the complexity of the underlying technology or the direction in which it evolves.

But modern technologies are so inseparably integrated with each other and so internally complex that abstract principles alone may not be enough. We need to better understand how complexity works and exactly what needs to be done to address rapidly evolving technologies.

I recently came across a paper titled Assembly Theory by Leroy Cronin that offers a novel explanation for how complex systems evolve and grow. Even though it deals primarily with chemical systems, the ideas in this paper could not only apply to other complex systems, but can also inform how we should regulate them.