Overview
In a universe filled by chaos and disorder, one physicist makes the radical argument that the growth of order drives the passage of time—and shapes the destiny of the universe.
Time is among the universe's greatest mysteries. Why, when most laws of physics allow for it to flow forward and backward, does it only go forward?
Physicists have long appealed to the second law of thermodynamics, held to predict the increase of disorder in the universe, to explain this. In The Janus Point, physicist Julian Barbour argues that the second law has been misapplied and that the growth of order determines how we experience time. In his view, the Big Bang becomes the "Janus Point," a moment of minimal order from which time could flow, and order increase, in two directions.
The Janus Point has remarkable implications: while most physicists predict that the universe will become mired in disorder, Barbour sees the possibility that order—the stuff of life—can grow without bound.
A major new work of physics, The Janus Point will transform our understanding of the nature of existence.
“[Barbour]’s provocative theory offers an optimistic view of our cosmic destiny … An engaging and inspiring read.” ―Matthew Johnson, Science Magazine
Time is among the universe's greatest mysteries. Why, when most laws of physics allow for it to flow forward and backward, does it only go forward?
Physicists have long appealed to the second law of thermodynamics, held to predict the increase of disorder in the universe, to explain this. In The Janus Point, physicist Julian Barbour argues that the second law has been misapplied and that the growth of order determines how we experience time. In his view, the Big Bang becomes the "Janus Point," a moment of minimal order from which time could flow, and order increase, in two directions.
The Janus Point has remarkable implications: while most physicists predict that the universe will become mired in disorder, Barbour sees the possibility that order—the stuff of life—can grow without bound.
A major new work of physics, The Janus Point will transform our understanding of the nature of existence.
“[Barbour]’s provocative theory offers an optimistic view of our cosmic destiny … An engaging and inspiring read.” ―Matthew Johnson, Science Magazine
The book, The Janus Point: A New Theory of Time [Bulk, Wholesale, Quantity] ISBN#9780465095469 in Hardcover by Julian Barbour may be ordered in bulk quantities. Minimum starts at 25 copies. Availability based on publisher status and quantity being ordered.
Details
Format:
Hardcover
Publication Date:
12/01/2020
ISBN-10:
0465095461
ISBN-13:
9780465095469
Pages:
400
Publisher:
Basic Books
