Statistical Mechanics: Entropy, Order Parameters, and Complexity

James Sethna2006book

Selected reading: A finite configuration-counting example.

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How to study this source

  • Why does time have an arrow?

    backgroundA finite configuration-counting example

    Choose a finite state-counting example and state what its simplified system represents.

Ideas and questions

Read background definitions when a term blocks the argument. Then return to the source and reconstruct its claim in your own words.

Read alongside, read against

  • From Eternity to Here

    Sean Carroll. Compare assumptions, evidence and scope with the source above. These are editorial companions, not necessarily direct responses.

  • Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics

    de Groot · Mazur. Compare assumptions, evidence and scope with the source above. These are editorial companions, not necessarily direct responses.

  • Self-Organization in Nonequilibrium Systems

    Nicolis · Prigogine. Compare assumptions, evidence and scope with the source above. These are editorial companions, not necessarily direct responses.

  • The End of Certainty

    Ilya Prigogine. Compare assumptions, evidence and scope with the source above. These are editorial companions, not necessarily direct responses.

  • Information Theory and Statistical Mechanics

    E. T. Jaynes. Compare assumptions, evidence and scope with the source above. These are editorial companions, not necessarily direct responses.