Geomorphology and Complexity - inseparably connected?

The connected use of the terms 'geomorphology' and 'complex' systems increased exponentially in recent years. Therefore, complexity in geomorphology is explored from different perspectives in this contribution to answer whether or not complexity is only a catchword or if complexity theory has made its way as a new paradigm into geomorphology Firstly, a brief overview on general principles and frequently used terms is given, and the transfer of these ideas to geomorphologic research is described. Different interpretations of complexity in geomorphology (sensitivity, emergence, self-organisation, equilibrium) are then exemplified and the application of methods and approaches (fractals, power law, SOC, cellular automata models) are presented. The paper concludes with showing the high potential of complexity research in geomorphology and the related challenges.