Towards an Algebraic Theory of Systems

Title: Towards an Algebraic Theory of Systems

Abstract: Computer systems are built by composing together smaller components. This work aims to identify the key requirements for system composition, and introduces the concept of a 'system algebra', aiming to formalize various composition operations one can perform on systems. In this setting, the idea of composition-order invariance is formalized, which asserts that the order in which systems are composed or connected does not affect the final result. The framework is applicable to a variety of systems, including physical systems, electronic circuits, and distributed networks.

In addition, a hierarchy of useful "models" of this system algebra is presented. Of particular interest to Computer Science are 'functional system algebras' of which Kahn Networks and Causal Networks are prominent examples.

Bio: Suraaj Kanniwadi is a PhD student at Cornell University, advised by Andrew Myers. His research interests encompass systems, security, and programming languages.