a computers arrow of time计算机的时间之箭.pdfVIP

Entropy 2005, 7[4], 221-233 Entropy ISSN 1099-4300 /entropy/ Full paper A Computer’s Arrow of Time L. S. Schulman Physics Department, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699-5820, USA E-mail: schulman@ Received: 15 April 2005 / Accepted: 20 September 2005 / Published: 6 October 2005 Abstract: Some researchers believe that the psychological or consciousness arrow of time is a consequence of the thermodynamic arrow. Some don’t. As for many issues in this area, the dis- agreement revolves about fundamental and undebatable assumptions. As a contribution to this standoff I consider the extent to which a computer—presumably governed by nothing more than the thermodynamic arrow—can be said to possess a psychological arrow. My contention is that the parallels are sufficiently strong as to leave little room for an independent psychological arrow. Reservations are nevertheless expressed on the complete objectivity of the thermodynamic arrow. Keywords: time’s arrows, two-time boundary condition, causality, cybernetics, computers PACS codes: 05.70.Ln, 89.75.-k Entropy 2005, 7[4], 221-233 222 1 Introduction The manifest asymmetry of past and future was a subject of inquiry long before developments in physical theory enhanced the puzzle through an apparent conflict with the nearly symmetric microscopic laws of physics. This “manifest” asymmetry is sometimes called the psychological arrow of time or the consciousness arrow or the biological arrow [1]. Its characterizations are as diverse as its definition is difficult