The Little Book of Time

The end of the second millennium was merely a numerical occasion that left no significant traces on humanity. Even the date conversion of computer times was taken in stride by our worldwide information and communication networks. Instead, the widely anticipated catastrophes and dislocations took place at other times. This upholds the thesis expounded in this book: Apart from the external technical clock time, there exists an intrinsic systems time that controls the processes of structural change, growth, and aging in systems ranging from organisms, populations, and institutions to states, cultures, and societies. Even the Universe is subject to phases of renewal and aging that are distinct from the external measured time. We therefore ought to spend less time watching the clock, and should take note of the inner temporal rhythms of nature and society."

About the Author

Klaus Mainzer is a Professor of Philosophy and Systems Science at the University of Augsburg, Germany. Among his previous books are Thinking in Complexity: The Complex Dynamics of Matter, Mind, and Mankind (Springer-Verlag, 1997) and Symmetries of Nature: A Handbook for Philosophy of Nature and Science.