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The Thermodynamic Cost of Choosing

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Abstract

Choice can be defined in thermodynamical terms, and shown to have a thermodynamic cost: choosing between a binary alternative at temperature T dissipates an energy \(E\ge kT\ln 2\).

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Notes

  1. Recall that I am in the context of a closed system, with no thermal bath.

  2. I thank an anonymous referee for pointing out these connection.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Aix-Marseille University, Université de Toulon, CPT-CNRS, 13288, Marseille, France

    Carlo Rovelli

  2. Department of Philosophy and Rotman Institute, 1151 Richmond St.N, London, ON, N6A5B7, Canada

    Carlo Rovelli

  3. Perimeter Institute, 31 Caroline Street N, Waterloo, ON, N2L2Y5, Canada

    Carlo Rovelli

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  1. Carlo Rovelli
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Correspondence to Carlo Rovelli.

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Rovelli, C. The Thermodynamic Cost of Choosing. Found Phys 54, 28 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10701-024-00765-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10701-024-00765-7

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