Robert Hazen

Dr. Robert Hazen, a leading mineralogist and geologist at the Carnegie Institution, introduces a groundbreaking concept of a second arrow of time, focused on increasing functional information in evolution. He argues that as the universe ages, it becomes more organized and purposeful, challenging traditional views of entropy. Using the coffee cup as an analogy, he illustrates how function shapes the evolution of complex systems, suggesting a new understanding of time, evolution, and reality itself.

Join mineralogist Robert (Bob) Hazen and astrobiologist Mike Wong as they propose a groundbreaking Law of Increasing Functional Information. They dive into how complexity emerges in life and the universe, discussing the differences between scientific laws and theories. The duo explains the critical role of context and selection in evolving systems, illustrating their ideas with real-world examples from minerals to AI innovation. Their insights challenge traditional views and open new avenues for understanding complexity, life, and even cooking!