The Pattern of Change

One of life's most fundamental revelations is change. Presenting the fascinating view that pattern is the manifestation of change, this unique book explores the science, mathematics, and philosophy of change and the ways in which they have come to inform our understanding of the world. Through discussions on chance and determinism, symmetry and invariance, information and entropy, quantum theory and paradox, the authors trace the history of science and bridge the gaps between mathematical, physical, and philosophical perspectives. Change as a foundational concept is deeply rooted in ancient Chinese thought, and this perspective is integrated into the narrative throughout, providing philosophical counterpoints to customary Western thought. Ultimately, this is a book about ideas. Intended for a wide audience, not so much as a book of answers, but rather an introduction to new ways of viewing the world.

• Combines mathematics and philosophy to explore the relationship between pattern and change
• Uses examples from the world around us to illustrate how thinking has developed over time and in different parts of the world
• Includes chapters on information, dynamics, symmetry, chance, order, the brain, and quantum mechanics, all introduced gently and building progressively toward deeper insights
• Accompanied online by additional chapters and endnotes to explore topics of further interest