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Transformative Concepts in Scientific Convergence
Author(s) -
BAINBRIDGE WILLIAM SIMS
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
annals of the new york academy of sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.712
H-Index - 248
eISSN - 1749-6632
pISSN - 0077-8923
DOI - 10.1196/annals.1382.003
Subject(s) - transformative learning , convergence (economics) , computer science , information flow , variation (astronomy) , process (computing) , complex system , exploit , complex adaptive system , theoretical computer science , statistical physics , epistemology , artificial intelligence , sociology , physics , pedagogy , linguistics , philosophy , astrophysics , economics , economic growth , operating system , computer security
This article suggests eight high‐level concepts that can promote convergence by identifying analogies across fields of science and engineering. Conservation : Many properties are conserved, through symmetries, parity laws, and feedback‐regulated stabilities in complex adaptive systems. Indecision : Inconsistency, undecidability, uncertainty, chance, deterministic chaos, and similar concepts are fundamental principles in the dynamics of systems over time. Configuration : Detailed, dynamic structures of objects determine their properties, notably the unity of nature at the nanoscale. Interaction : Elements of a system influence each other, generating higher‐level dynamics and other emergent phenomena. Variation : Statistical distributions of properties are caused by the combination of chance and divergent processes of interaction. Evolution : Marked by drift, natural selection, and a trend toward greater complexity, evolution exploits variation to develop new configurations that compete through interactions. Information : Scientific laws can be analyzed in terms of information content, and flow, while the doing of any science today relies heavily upon information technology. Cognition : Mental or computational process is the dynamic aspect of information, fundamental to the human practice of science.