Quantum Concepts in the Social, Ecological and Biological Sciences

Presents an overview of how complex systems from a variety of fields can be modelled using the principles of quantum mechanics.

Fabio Bagarello (Author)

9781108492126, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 30 May 2019

310 pages, 81 b/w illus.
25.4 x 17.8 x 1.9 cm, 0.79 kg

'The target audience for the book consists of scientists of the fields mentioned in the title (biologists,ecologists,sociologists); they could find - beyond the specific applications of the book - new directions and methods, through quantum mechanics, in approaching problems in their areas of expertise; even more so, they could open new application horizons. Prospective readers are also quantum experts, while finally, the volume could be of interest to those involved in physics, mathematics, and computer science.' Nikolaos E. Myridis, Contemporary Physics

Quantum mechanics is traditionally associated with microscopic systems; however, quantum concepts have also been successfully applied to a diverse range of macroscopic systems both within and outside of physics. This book describes how complex systems from a variety of fields can be modelled using quantum mechanical principles; from biology and ecology, to sociology and decision-making. The mathematical basis of these models is covered in detail, furnishing a self-contained and consistent approach. This book provides unique insight into the dynamics of these macroscopic systems and opens new interdisciplinary research frontiers. It will be an essential resource for students and researchers in applied mathematics or theoretical physics who are interested in applying quantum mechanics to dynamical systems in the social, biological or ecological sciences.

Preface
1. Introduction
Part I. The General Framework: 2. Some preliminaries
Part II. Applications: 3. Politics
4. Desertification
5. Escape strategies
6. Closed ecosystems
7. More on biological systems
8. Quantum game of life and its (H
?)-induced dynamics
9. Prehistoric data miming
10. A simple model of information in stock markets
11. Decision Making driven by the environment
12. Compatible and incompatible questions
13. This is not the end
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Ecological science, the Biosphere [PSAF], Biology, life sciences [PS], Medical physics [PHVD], Applied physics [PHV], Quantum physics [quantum mechanics & quantum field theory PHQ], Econometrics [KCH], Cognition & cognitive psychology [JMR], Society & social sciences [J], Research methods: general [GPS]