James Lovelock, who proposed the Gaia hypothesis (which postulates that the Earth functions as a self-regulating system) died today. You can read more about him on his Wikipedia page.
When I was in high school, I did a report on the Gaia hypothesis. I suppose that that was my start in complex systems?
(Tip of the cap to Alun Lloyd.)
My name is Mason Porter. I am a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at UCLA. Previously I was Professor of Nonlinear and Complex Systems in the Mathematical Institute at University of Oxford. I was also a Tutorial Fellow of Somerville College.
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Sunday, July 24, 2022
What Happens at Santa Fe Institute Stays at Santa Fe Institute
I am heading off to Santa Fe Institute (SFI) for a bit.
Monday, July 18, 2022
RIP Pogo (1998–2022)
Pogo, the infamous cat of Somerville College, died on 26 June at the wizened age of 23 years and 10 months. Pogo's ashes will be scattered in his favorite spot in College just after the memorial for Dame Fiona Caldicott (who, of course, was Pogo's alter ego). That is immensely fitting.
Thursday, July 07, 2022
RIP Mike Brito (1934–2022)
Longtime Dodger scout Mike Brito died today. For many years, Brito was a familiar sight behind the dugout with his cigar.