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(Last update: August 5, 2004)
Dynamic Ontology
An Inquiry into Systems, Emergence, Levels of Reality, and Forms of Causality
Faculty of Sociology, Trento University
September 8-11, 2004
Many scientific results of the twentieth century, in different fields of research, seemingly converge on the conclusion that science is changing its nature.
Quantum indeterminacy, computational limitations, complexity, chaos and turbulence, reactive and anticipatory systems, non-linear dynamics and far-from-equilibrium systems, defects in phase transitions, the far-reaching importance of intentionality, emergent properties and emergent objects, forward, upward and downward forms of causation are all facets of a general view claiming that we are approaching a new scientific agenda.
The four-centuries-old Galileian vision of science inadvertently but inexorably seems to be giving way to a new one in which formal, material, mental and social sciences are developing new forms of interaction and are beginning to integrate with each other. Many aspects of this new scenario are still unknown; many others are emerging; and many blind alleys lie in wait, especially if we lack awareness of where we are and where we are heading.
A selected group of well-known and innovative scholars working in different fields sociology, psychology, computer science, mathematics and philosophy will present and discuss the basic conceptual issues of this new, incipient vision.
It may be worth mentioning that a special session will be planned on the potential impact of this new vision of science on industrial and technological innovation and societal values system.
Ample time will be allocated to discussion. If you are interested in attending the conference and/or contributing your own ideas, please send a mail to the address below before February 15, 2004. All submissions will undergo a double review.
Useful links
Axiomathes, An International Journal in Ontology and Cognitive Systems
Descriptive and Formal Ontology
TAO-Theory
and application of ontology
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