literature and science

Bonnie Surfus (ENG) surfus at chuma.cas.usf.edu
Wed Sep 13 06:55:05 CDT 1995


Craig notes, among other things, how Honda, or some car co., is using 
principles from chaos theory, namely, "the butterfly effect," or 
"sensitive dependence on initial conditions," to advertise.  

I heard the other day of a med student at Emory who is using "chaos 
control" to try to predict the rhythms of the heart in order to assist in 
the process of defibrillation.  Less pain, less energy, less trauma.  
INteresting.  Still very primitive, theoretical.

Anyhow, I do agree with Craig on the "polar opposites" issue.  Naturally, 
we'll disagree, we do.  But sometimes the vehemence with which we do so 
is shocking.  And Here, of all places, it seems inappropriate.  I'm sure 
I"ve been guilty before (often?) but it still calls for thought.

Bonnie



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