more on this theme     |     more from this thinker     |     more from this text


Single Idea 22950

[filed under theme 27. Natural Reality / D. Time / 2. Passage of Time / g. Time's arrow ]

Full Idea

The Second Law of Thermodynamics says it is overwhelmingly probable that entropy will increase. This leaves the door open for occasional isolated instances of decrease. But the thermodynamic arrow makes the increase a necessity.

Gist of Idea

If time is thermodynamic then entropy is necessary - but the theory says it is probable

Source

Robin Le Poidevin (Travels in Four Dimensions [2003], 12 'Three')

Book Ref

Le Poidevin,Robin: 'Travels in Four Dimensions' [OUP 2003], p.213


A Reaction

Le Poidevin sees this as a clincher against the thermodynamic explanation of the arrow. I'm now sure how the Second Law can even be stated without explicit or implicit reference to time.