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215 | Barry Loewer on Physics, Counterfactuals, and the Macroworld

Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas

CHAPTER

Causation, Entropy, and the Nature of Time

This chapter explores the intricate relationship between causation and statistical mechanics, challenging the traditional view that causes must precede their effects. It introduces the 'past hypothesis' in statistical mechanics, which posits that the universe started in a state of low entropy, shaping the evolution of theories on time and entropy. Through historical context and discussions on probability, the chapter reflects on philosophical inquiries and the contributions of notable physicists to our understanding of these complex ideas.

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