Spider webs are classic examples of anti-fragile systems. they are resilient, robust and easily repairable.
In contrast, fragile systems are those which are not well-equipped to deal with sudden changes and disruptions. They are often complex, tightly coupled and have little redundancy. Examples of fragile systems include the financial system, the power grid and the global food system.
The concept of anti-fragility has been popularised by Nassim Nicholas Taleb in his book Antifragile:
Things That Gain from Disorder. Taleb argues that we should design systems that are not just resistant to shocks, but that actually benefit from them. This is because shocks can be a source of learning and growth.
In a world that is becoming increasingly uncertain and unpredictable, the ability to thrive in the face of change is becoming increasingly important. Anti-fragile systems are those that are best equipped to deal with sudden changes and disruptions.
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