There are a vast range of physical, biological, and other systems that we are confronted with that exhibit an immense complexity. Throughout history, it has been seen as perhaps the work of a supernatural being. Also, often when we encounter something that seems complex, we take it for granted that the phenomenon must be the result of an underlying mechanism that is itself complex. The author shows us how simple programs can, in fact, produce great complexity. In regards to physics, the author states, “that thinking in terms of simple programs will make it possible to construct a single truly fundamental theory of physics, from which space, time, quantum mechanics and all the other known feature of our universe will emerge.” We learn in this book, through virtually hundreds of pages of diagrams, how simple initial conditions can produce complex behavior. Wolfram argues that this phenomenon is responsible from most of the complexity we see in nature.
There is extensive discussion of cellular automata, where we have simple rules that result in complex behavior- so much in fact that I skipped through some of the material. It is believed that these behaviors are common in nature. An interesting finding is that “adding more complexity to the underlying rules does not yield behavior that it ultimately any more complex.” By chapter four, we are introduced to systems based on numbers. How does their behavior compare with other systems discussed? Even here it is possible to get behavior of considerable complexity by applying a series of operations based on simple arithmetic. Chapter 5 expands things to two dimension and beyond. The next chapter considers completely random initial conditions.
Finally, we get to the application of what was covered in the previous chapters – the study of actual phenomena in nature. There seems to be a similarity between the basic mechanisms in nature and those responsible for the phenomena seen in simple programs. It is important to note that even though the models are based on simple programs that may successfully reproduce the behavior of some system even though that system does not actually consist of discrete cells, it is just a model. Models provide “an abstract representation of effects that are important in determining the behavior of a system.” The author provides examples of snowflake formation and fluidic motion. Regarding evolution, it seems that natural selection may not be as important as once thought saying that features in complexity of biological organisms arise in a sense not because of natural selection but despite it. Also, it was noted that the high degree of complexity seen in nature “can arise in a sense quite effortlessly just as a consequence of following certain simple rules of growth.”
In the chapter on physics, this idea of simple initial conditions producing complex and seemingly random behavior is applied to the Second Law of Thermodynamics. The author discusses models for continuum fluid mechanics and even the universe. In fact, he believes that most physical laws discovered so far “are not truly fundamental but are emergent features of the large-scale behavior of some ultimate underlying rules.” The discussion veers into topics like gravity, spacetime, and quantum phenomena. It is the author’s “strong belief that in the end it will turn out that every detail of our universe does indeed follow rules that can be represented by a very simple program – and that everything we see will ultimately emerge just from running this program.” Wow, the thought went through my head: could we be living in a simulation? Who knows?
The next chapter deals with process of perception and analysis. I skimmed through parts of this section – a bit too much detail for me. But the question becomes could simple mechanisms underlie human thinking? The next chapter covers universality and how “in the end cellular automata can actually be made to emulate almost every single type of system” that has been discussed so far. In fact, a wide range of computations that can be performed by computers can be done by cellular automata.
In the final chapter, the author discusses something called the Principle of Computational Equivalence, where one can view all processes whether produced by humans or nature as computations. Another concept discussed is computational irreducibility, which implies that even if one has all the information to work out how some system will behave, it will still take an irreducible amount of computational work to do this. The concepts developed here apply not only to phenomena in nature but can provide new insights on fundamental issues in mathematics as well. Note that in discussing his work, the author supplies literally hundreds of charts, diagrams, and tables to back up his claims. The author concludes the main purpose of the book has been to build a new kind of basic science, but the most important consequence will have been to introduce a vast new range of systems helpful to technology.
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A Paradigm-Shifting Exploration book! highly recommended!!
"A New Kind of Science" by Stephen Wolfram is a groundbreaking journey that challenges conventional perspectives on science and computation. Wolfram presents a paradigm-shifting thesis that not only redefines our understanding of complex systems but also sets forth a new framework for scientific exploration.Wolfram's comprehensive approach delves into cellular automata and computational processes, demonstrating their relevance to a wide range of disciplines. The book's strength lies in its ability to distill complex concepts into accessible explanations, making it engaging for both experts and enthusiasts alike.The depth of Wolfram's research is evident as he unveils the computational underpinnings of natural phenomena. His exploration of the computational universe opens up new avenues for understanding the complexity of patterns and processes observed in various fields.While the book challenges traditional scientific paradigms, it does so with a clarity that encourages contemplation rather than confusion. Wolfram's writing style, though scholarly, remains accessible, ensuring that readers from diverse backgrounds can engage with the revolutionary ideas presented.In conclusion, "A New Kind of Science" is a thought-provoking masterpiece that reimagines the foundations of science and computation. Stephen Wolfram's groundbreaking work not only sparks curiosity but also sets the stage for a new era of scientific inquiry. This book is a must-read for those seeking a profound exploration of the intricacies of our computational universe. Highly recommended.
Top reviews from other countries
Rudolf P.
interessant, aber wenig bescheidener Autor
Reviewed in Germany on July 16, 2020Williamanon
The perfect gift for anyone in your life who likes science.
Reviewed in Canada on November 12, 2018
Myrddyn
A cybernetic aid to understanding
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 18, 2017
