The natural science underlying big history

Area of Science:

• Cosmic Evolution
• Complexity Science
• Thermodynamics

Background:

• The universe contains diverse complex systems, from galaxies to societies.
• These systems exist as islands of order in a disordered universe.
• All organized systems undergo evolution, encompassing physical, biological, and cultural processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the concept of cosmic evolution as an interdisciplinary subject.
• To investigate the universal evolutionary process connecting complex systems across space and time.
• To propose energy rate density as a metric for system complexity.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of observational data supporting the evolution of complex systems.
• Application of frontier, nonequilibrium thermodynamics.
• Quantitative modeling and experimental testing of complexity emergence.

Main Results:

• Complex systems evolve unceasingly, uncaringly, and unpredictably over cosmic history.
• A fundamental simplicity underlies the emergence and growth of complexity in diverse systems.
• Energy flow, specifically energy rate density, is a crucial factor in system complexity and survival.

Conclusions:

• Humanity and its creations are integral parts of universal cosmic evolution.
• Cosmic evolution offers a framework to unify natural sciences and understand our origins.
• Energy rate density provides an objective measure for comparing complexity across various systems.