Forum: Chaos Theory |
Friday, March 12th at 7:00 PM
Chaos Theory attempts to explain the fact that complex and unpredictable results can and will occur in systems that are sensitive to their initial conditions. A common example used to illustrate Chaos Theory is known as the "Butterfly Effect". It states that the fluttering of a butterfly’s wings in China could, in theory, effect the weather in New York City, thousands of miles away. In other words, it is possible that a very small occurrence can produce unpredictable and sometimes drastic results by triggering a series of increasing significant events.
Chaos Theory has profound (and somewhat surprising) philosophical, scientific, and practical ramifications. Some practical examples where Chaos Theory is being used include Weather Forecasting, Stock Market Analysis, Industrial Design, and Music Composition to name just a few. A related area of study, "Fractal Geometry" has other important uses.
Our speaker for this Forum is Dieter Armbruster Ph.D., professor of Mathematics at ASU. Professor Armbruster has promised to make his presentation as non-mathematical as possible, and to focus on the interesting philosophical and practical implications of Chaos Theory. It should prove to be an educational and interesting Forum. Please plan to attend.
To get to AutoNation, take the Ray Road exit off I-10 East, turn left over the freeway on Ray, then turn left at the first road (54th Street), go one block and turn left on Orchard. The Post-Forum discussion will be at Keegans only a few blocks away.
Questions?: Call Jerry Corbin at 438-0958