Entropy: The Second Law of Thermodynamics | David L. Hawk | Systems Thinking Ontario | 2022-03-14
Channel: David Ing
Date: 17/04/2022

For espoused systems thinkers who are predisposed towards towards finding an equilibrium (or maybe one amongst multiple equilibria), a discussion about entropy can raise discomfort.  In the systems sciences, the second law of thermodynamics -- as an entropic process -- is often cited by the learned as a universal law applicable across physics, chemistry, biology ... as well as social systems. 

In economics, Nicholas Georgescu-Roegen drew attention to the inconvenience that "perpetual motion of the third kind is impossible".  Thus, "a closed system that does work forever at a steady rate" violates the second law of thermodynamics.  Towards unpacking the implications of this universal law, we drew on David L. Hawk for expertise.  

Pre-readings for the session are at https://wiki.st-on.org/2022-03-14 .