Klaus Mainzer Boeken

This Brief is an essay at the interface of philosophy and complexity research, trying to inspire the reader with new ideas and new conceptual developments of cellular automata. Going beyond the numerical experiments of Steven Wolfram, it is argued that cellular automata must be considered complex dynamical systems in their own right, requiring appropriate analytical models in order to find precise answers and predictions in the universe of cellular automata. Indeed, eventually we have to ask whether cellular automata can be considered models of the real world and, conversely, whether there are limits to our modern approach of attributing the world, and the universe for that matter, essentially a digital reality.

Since the first edition sold out in less than a year, we now present the revised second edition of Mainzer's popular book. The theory of nonlinear complex systems has become a successful problem-solving approach in the natural sciences from laser physics, quantum chaos, and meteorology to computer simulations of cell growth in biology. It is now recognized that many of our social, ecological, and political problems are also of a global, complex, and nonlinear nature. And one of the most exciting contemporary topics is the idea that even the human mind is governed largely by the nonlinear dynamics of complex systems. In this wide-ranging but concise treatment, Prof. Mainzer discusses, in a nontechnical language, the common framework behind these endeavors. Emphasis is given to the evolution of new structures in natural and cultural systems and we see clearly how the new integrative approach can give insights not available from traditional reductionistic methods.

Frontmatter -- Preface of the English Edition -- Preface -- Table of Contents -- Introduction -- 2. Symmetries in Modern Mathematics -- 3. Symmetries in Classical Physics and the Philosophy of Nature -- 4. Symmetries in Modern Physics and Natural Sciences -- 5. Symmetry and Philosophy -- References -- Author Index -- Subject Index

Time is fundamental to our experience, but remains mysterious. This book shows how philosophers and scientists have tried to grapple with this most extraordinary of ordinary phenomena. From the attempts of early astronomers to reconcile solar and lunar and terrestrial reckonings, to the huge expansions and contractions of time consciousness brought on by scientists as diverse as Newton, Darwin, and Einstein, this book shows how time is as much a matter of human choice as it is a matter of scientific precision.

The book explores the complexities of digitalization in the 21st century, emphasizing the influence of algorithms and big data on our lives. It critiques the common belief that effective problem-solving relies solely on fast algorithms and data mining, highlighting the often-overlooked foundations in logic, mathematics, computer science, and philosophy. The discussion addresses the misunderstandings of the opportunities and risks presented by these technologies, urging a deeper examination of the principles that underpin our increasingly digital world.

Focusing on the evolution of artificial intelligence, the book explores its transformative role in various sectors while addressing its inherent limitations. It contrasts early symbolic AI, reliant on rule-based systems and logic, with the current prevalence of statistics-driven machine learning and Big Data. Highlighting the success of sub-symbolic AI, such as chatbots, it raises concerns about transparency. The author advocates for explainable and reliable AI, emphasizing the need for clarity and verifiability in the logical and mathematical underpinnings of algorithms.

Focusing on the energy efficiency of neuromorphic systems, the book explores their potential as a sustainable technology in light of environmental challenges. It connects neuromorphic computing to analogue computing, suggesting it may surpass digital Turing limits. The discussion extends to material and engineering sciences realizing these concepts in hardware, alongside quantum mechanics offering innovative solutions. Additionally, it raises profound questions about Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and advocates for interdisciplinary research across logic, mathematics, and cognitive science to advance this field.

Stephen W. Hawking hat in bahnbrechenden Untersuchungen und in seinem Weltbestseller "Eine kurze Geschichte der Zeit“ faszinierende Antworten auf alte und neue Fragen der Kosmologie gegeben: Was sind Zeit und Raum? Hatte die Welt einen Anfang, oder hat sie immer bestanden? Eine prägnante und anschauliche Einführung in Hawkings Hypothesen und Forschungsergebnisse und gleichzeitig ein spannender Ausblick in die kosmologische Zukunft.