The notion »fractal« was originally introduced by the mathematician Benoit Mandelbrot. Mandelbrot uses the term »fractal« to characterise highly complex structures which are generated by the repeated application of astonishingly simple rules. In the case of the »Mandelbrot set« this insignificant equation

 

leads, amongst other structures, to the following constellation:

 

 

Fractals can be regarded as dynamic balances. Thus fractal geometry has become the symbol of numerous disciplines which focus on non-linear change.

 

The fractal perspective of knowledge which is maintained here shows strong analogies to Mandelbrot's conceptional basis, which explains why his term is used.