In this critically acclaimed book, first published in 1988 and now
reprinted in paperback, scientist and author Paul Davies explains how
recent scientific advances are transforming our understanding of the
emergence of complexity and organization in the universe.
Melding a variety of ideas and disciplines from biology, fundamental
physics, computer science, mathematics, genetics, and neurology, Davies
presents his provocative theory on the source of the universe's
creative potency. He explores the new paradigm (replacing the
centuries-old Newtonian view of the universe) that recognizes the
collective and holistic properties of physical systems and the power of self-organization. He casts the laws in physics in the role of a
"blueprint," embodying a grand cosmic scheme that progressively unfolds
as the universe develops.
Challenging the viewpoint that the physical universe is a
meaningless collection particles, he finds overwhelming evidence for an
underlying purpose: "Science may explain all the processes whereby the
universe evolves its own destiny, but that still leaves room for there
to be a meaning behind existence."