Scale (analytical tool)
In the study of complex systems and hierarchy theory, the concept of scale refers to the combination of the level of analysis ; and the level of observation. The scale of analysis encompasses both the analytical choice of how to observe a given system or object of study, and the role of the observer in determining the identity of the system. This analytical tool is central to multi-scale analysis.
For example, on at the scale of analysis of a given population of zebras, the number of predators determines the number of preys that survives after hunting, while at the scale of analysis of the ecosystem, the availability of preys determines how many predators can survive in a given area. The semantic categories of "prey" and "predator" are not given, but are defined by the observer.
