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Expanding universe Quote by Kim Stanley Robinson

“In an expanding universe, Spencer had said, order was not really order, but merely the difference between the actual entropy exhibited and the maximum entropy possible.” quote by Kim Stanley Robinson
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““In an expanding universe, Spencer had said, order was not really order, but merely the difference between the actual entropy exhibited and the maximum entropy possible.””

Kim Stanley Robinson

About This Quote

Source Novel: Aurora, Kim Stanley Robinson, 2015

Order emerges from the gap between actual disorder and the theoretical maximum, highlighting that apparent structure is relative to entropy levels.

In simple terms: Order is the difference between current chaos and possible maximum chaos.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that order is relative, not absolute.

Themes

entropy order thermodynamics cosmology

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • space travel planning
  • climate modeling
  • organizational design
  • risk assessment

Key Concepts

physics philosophy systems theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does entropy influence our perception of order?
  • Can we harness entropy for beneficial outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Entropy concepts can be misinterpreted, leading to fatalistic attitudes.

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