Energy, Entropy and Work in Computational Ecosystems - A Thermodynamic Account

Recently, computer scientists have begun to build computational ecosystems in which multiple autonomous agents interact locally to achieve globally efficient organised behaviour. Here we present a thermodynamic interpretation of these systems. We highlight the difference between the regular use of terms such as energy and work, and their use within a thermodynamic framework. We explore the way in which this perspective might influence the design and management of such systems.

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