Analyzes the sensitivity of the logistic growth model to r, the intrinsic population growth rate, through simple simulations of the model in R. Demonstrates that as growth rate increases the dynamics switch from a smooth sigmoidal rise to steady state to a damped oscillation, to a stable oscillation repeating a 2 or 4 (or more) point cycle to chaos to extinction. Discusses the basic idea of deterministic chaos, the classic logistic bifurcation diagram, the historical role of Sir Robert May, and the analogy of chaotic dynamics in the weather and weather forecasts.

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