Chance, Calculation and Life

Chance, Calculation and Life brings together 16 original papers from the colloquium of the same name, exploring concepts and questions related to chance in mathematics, humanities, biology, and evolution. It answers fundamental questions by presenting contributions from mathematicians, physicists, biologists, and philosophers.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 22 June 2021
\n Publisher: ISTE Ltd
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Chance, Calculation, and Life is a captivating collection of 16 original papers that emerged from the colloquium of the same name, organized by the International Cultural Center of Cerisy in 2019. This interdisciplinary volume explores the multifaceted realm of chance, spanning from mathematics to the humanities, biology, and beyond. It raises profound questions about the nature of chance, its relationship to knowledge, decision-making, evolution, and the very essence of life.

The book seeks to provide comprehensive answers to these fundamental inquiries by gathering the insightful and meticulously documented contributions of mathematicians, physicists, biologists, and philosophers. Their expertise and perspectives enrich the content, making this book an invaluable resource for both academic study and introspection.

In mathematics, the study of chance has a rich history, dating back to the ancient Greeks. Philosophers such as Aristotle and René Descartes explored the concept of chance, challenging traditional notions of determinism and providence. Mathematicians, including Blaise Pascal and Pierre de Fermat, developed mathematical models to quantify and analyze chance, leading to the development of probability theory.

Today, chance remains an essential aspect of many fields, including physics, where it plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of subatomic particles and the evolution of the universe. Physicists have developed mathematical frameworks to describe and predict the outcomes of random events, such as the random motion of particles in a gas or the distribution of galaxies.

In biology, chance plays a fundamental role in the process of evolution. Natural selection, the mechanism by which organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, relies on the random variation in genetic traits among individuals. This variation arises from mutations and genetic recombination, which are themselves influenced by chance. Evolutionary processes, such as speciation and adaptation, are shaped by the interplay between chance and necessity.

Chance also has implications for our daily lives and decision-making. The outcomes of events, both positive and negative, can be influenced by chance factors. For example, the results of a medical test or a sports game may be influenced by factors beyond our control, such as the random distribution of genes or the unpredictable nature of weather.

Furthermore, chance has philosophical and ethical dimensions. It raises questions about free will, responsibility, and the nature of chance itself. Philosophers have debated the extent to which chance determines our actions and the extent to which we have control over our lives.

In conclusion, Chance, Calculation, and Life is a groundbreaking work that delves into the complex and fascinating realm of chance. By bringing together the expertise of mathematicians, physicists, biologists, and philosophers, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the many concepts and questions related to chance. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate relationship between chance, knowledge, and the fabric of our existence.

\n Weight: 608g\n
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781786306678\n \n