Q: An interpretation of the Information Theoretical Q-Measure

The study of interactions within systems, including their networks of communication and forms of organization is central to cybernetics and system research. The object of this study spans the vast range between (but excluding) systems consisting of a mere aggregate of components and systems that are so complex that no meaningful components can be differentiated within them. Although interactions are central to systems theory, it is amazing that statistical techniques for identifying interactions within data about systems are scarely available. We will explore here the use of the information theoretical Q-measure for this purpose and conclude with a strong warning against its use.