Information and the Nature of Reality: From Physics To Metaphysics (Canto Classics)
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 5/15/2014
EAN 9781107684539, ISBN10: 1107684536
Paperback, 506 pages, 21.6 x 13.7 x 2.3 cm
Language: English
Many scientists regard mass and energy as the primary currency of nature. In recent years, however, the concept of information has gained importance. Why? In this book, eminent scientists, philosophers and theologians chart various aspects of information, from quantum information to biological and digital information, in order to understand how nature works. Beginning with a historical treatment of the topic, the book also examines physical and biological approaches to information, and its philosophical, theological and ethical implications.
1. Introduction
does information matter?
Paul Davies and Niels Henrik Gregersen
Part I. History
2. From matter to materialism … and (almost) back Ernan McMullin
3. Unsolved dilemmas
the concept of matter in the history of philosophy and in contemporary physics Philip Clayton
Part II. Physics
4. Universe from bit Paul Davies
5. The computational universe Seth Lloyd
6. Minds and values in the quantum universe Henry Pierce Stapp
Part III. Biology
7. The concept of information in biology John Maynard Smith
8. Levels of information
Shannon-Bolzmann-Darwin Terrence W. Deacon
9. Information and communication in living matter Bernd-Olaf Küppers
10. Semiotic freedom
an emerging force Jesper Hoffmeyer
11. Care on earth
generating informed concern Holmes Rolston
Part IV. Philosophy and Theology
12. The sciences of complexity - a new theological resource? Arthur Peacocke
13. God as the ultimate informational principle Keith Ward
14. Information, theology and the universe John F. Haught
15. God, matter, and information
towards a Stoicizing Logos christology Niels Henrik Gregersen
16. What is the 'spiritual body'? Michael Welker
Index.