Prof. Dr. Arto Annila

Open application

 

I see science as a way of making sense of reality. There are rules to be discovered and explained, for the world is not random but regular. Irrespective of scale and scope, data display power laws that cumulate sigmoidally from skewed distributions, logarithmic spirals, bifurcations, oscillations, and even chaos. Mathematical models and computer simulations can be tailored to reproduce these ubiquitous patterns. Yet, science transcends mere modeling by explaining causes and effects.

This Grand Regularity of data implies a universal principle. My most significant merit is formulating a general theory that explains the ubiquitous patterns. While it is an old idea that everything comprises the same basic building blocks, it is a new idea that the ancient atomos is the quantum [of action], the photon. Non-equilibrium statistical physics for open, quantized systems describes systems evolving toward balance with their surroundings. This theory, also known as the Second Law of Thermodynamics and the Principle of Least Action in its original form, explains non-deterministic courses and emergent phenomena as well as identifies the arrow of time with the flow of quanta.

The statistical theory of open quantum systems is a powerful precept to make sense of a wide range of phenomena, as evidenced by the spectrum of my papers. I have applied this theory to fundamental questions ranging from elementary particles to cosmic expansion, the origin of life to the downfall of societies, and chemical reactions to cognition. Furthermore, I understand information as physical and computation as a least-time process. Most importantly, the results quantitatively agree with the data. I am confident that this comprehension of reality will inspire productive research collaborations and provide deep insight into teaching. It underscores our collective responsibility to transition toward a sustainable way of life.

I am also highly motivated to use my expertise and experience for both academic advancement and public outreach.

 

Yours sincerely,
Arto Annila, Professor
arto.annila(at)helsinki.fi
arto.j.annila(at)gmail.com
CV & Publications

“The problems are solved, not by giving new information, but by arranging what we have always known.” — Ludwig Wittgenstein