What is the Second Law of Thermodynamics ?

[PrismEntity]

Yes.

Evolution does not violate the second law.

Because the second law applies only to closed systems, which we can define as systems which are totaly self contained, having no flow of matter or energy between the system and its environment.

If our battery has gone dead, then it is in a state of equalibrium. Left to itself, it will simply remain dead. However, we can recharge the battery, at the expense of order outside the battery.

In other words, it does not at all violate the SL to reverse entropy locally, as long as entropy increases generally, which is exactly what happens when we recharge a battery, or when life evolves.

It is exactly the same concept.

[Arouet]

Ummm, so if you knew that, then why did you post that quotation, knowing it was wrong? Why would you have considered it to be interesting? (Unless it was interesting only because it was wrong, which you should have pointed out, which brings us back to why did you post is in the first place?)

[PrismEntity]

The quote from Hutchison is to perform the same function that he used it for. To illustrate the basic question that makes people think that evolution violates the second law, in order to go on and address it.

Do you not agree with being clear on just what it is you are discussing?

He never said evolution violated the second law. He said it seems to, which of course it does to those who are unaware of just how entropy works.

[Arouet]

This is a discussion board filled with non physics experts. There is no need to proffer tests. Why not just come right out and say the message you want to give, rather than post something that makes it look like you are saying that the TOE violates the 2nd Law.

[PrismEntity]

[caniswalensis]

[Arouet]

I like the socratic method quite a lot and use it myself quite a bit. But it works much better on plain logical issues, rather than the finer points of the entropy physics!

I wasn't trying to be overly critical. Your post made it seem like you agreed with the statement. It was kind of annoying to see that you already knew it but were playing some kind of teacher.

[Arouet]

By the way Prism: welcome to the forum and hope you stick around!

[PrismEntity]

[Arouet]

There are people out there (generally christian fundamentalists) who make that exact argument. So there's no surprise that it looked like you were endorsing it.

[PrismEntity]

[PrismEntity]

Please excuse my rudeness.

Thanks for the welcome!

[PrismEntity]

BTW.

I AM a teacher.

As well as a student.

Actually, I'm neither.

[PrismEntity]

Ilya Prigogine.

Dissapative structures.

Anyone?



Anyone?

[spoirier]

My developed from first metaphysical principles of mind-matter duality, continues by an explanation of the nature of entropy. Maybe it can help you get it more clearly.