Complexity Quote by Freeman Dyson
“The total disorder in the universe, as measured by the quantity that physicists call entropy, increases steadily over time. Also, the total order in the universe, as measured by the complexity and permanence of organized structures, also increases steadily over time.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Scientific Lecture, 1970s
Entropy grows, but organized complexity also rises, showing both disorder and order expand over time.
In simple terms: Both chaos and structure increase.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that order can emerge from disorder.
Themes
entropy
order
complexity
universe
physics
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- cosmology research
- scientific theory
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
thermodynamics
self‑organization
emergence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this dual increase affect our view of progress?
- Can we harness entropy to create more order?
A Different Perspective
Understanding that increase in order may require energy input and favorable conditions.
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