Chaos Theory and Existentialism: Challenging assumptions

Abstract

Chaos theory studies the irregular, the discontinuous, the non-linear. Shifting away from determinism and scientific explanations rooted in reductionistic models, it brings a revolution by revealing that the universe has an inherent contradictory nature. Chaos raises philosophical questions and confronts us with paradox. How can we live in a universe ruled by physical laws and yet is unpredictable? How can certainty and uncertainty, stability and turbulence, simplicity and complexity co-exist? The insights of chaos are inherent to existentialism. Two radical theories – one scientific, one philosophical – reach similar conclusions by questioning our current understanding and our connection to the familiar. I would like to highlight how they can be an inspiration and a paradigm as models that challenge assumptions and the dominant scientific traditions using creative doubt and humble curiosity, and immerse into their mutual offerings and perceptions.