4 ms·
That is __severely__ underestimating the true probability - it considers only random thermal fluctuations. But the universe is really powered by processes that
by andbberger 8y ago
That is __severely__ underestimating the true probability - it considers only random thermal fluctuations. But the universe is really powered by processes that dissipate energy across a gradient to fuel a structured, very low entropy state.
The math is the same as calculating the probability that the glass you just broke will spontaneously jump back onto the table and reassemble itself. Which is a standard introductory example in thermodynamics... but you add self-awareness and suddenly this rather mundane thing is spooky and amazing.
You should be far more interested in what's happening when you boil a pot of water and convection rolls spontaneously form.
- drewblaisdell 8y ago> You should be far more interested in what's happening when you boil a pot of water and convection rolls spontaneously form. Serious question: why?
- andbberger 8y agohttps://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=17390042 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=17390042
- Symmetry 8y agothe universe is really powered by processes that dissipate energy across a gradient to fuel a structured, very low entropy state. By 10^(10^50) years that'll be long over.
- DoctorOetker 8y agowhich is exactly his point...
- Symmetry 8y agoRe-reading the post: no I don't think I can reasonably interpret it so that that was his point.
- andbberger 8y agoYa no not at all
- taneq 8y ago> processes that dissipate energy across a gradient to fuel a structured, very low entropy state You mean like... life?
- PhasmaFelis 8y agoThat's one of 'em, yeah.