Non‐equilibrium thermodynamic approach to the change in political systems

The purpose of this research is to develop a theoretical framework for the study of the dynamics of the political system on the basis of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and its entropy function. In thermodynamics, entropy has been regarded as a function of system change. An open system in a state of non-equilibrium tends to lead to a new dynamic state of complexity. In such a transition, the system acquires new energy to produce entropy and new possibilities for the system's behaviour. Non-equilibrium thermodynamics leads to a theory of system self-organization. Dissipative structures may trigger transitional processes that lead to higher order and complexity. This non-equilibrium thermodynamics approach can provide a powerful tool for analysing transitions of a political system over time. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.