Philosophy Wire: Chaotic particles. Chaotic cosmos. Teardrops from the sky…

A phenomenon that is well known from chaos theory was observed in a material for the first time ever. A structural transition in the ferroelastic material barium titanate, caused by an increase or decrease in temperature, resembles the periodic doubling seen in non-linear dynamical systems. This 'spatial chaos' in a material was first predicted in 1985 and could be used in applications such as adaptable neuromorphic electronics. [1] See the cosmos splitting in two. Right before your eyes. And then come together in unity. It is a chaotic world. It is a world in perfect order. So strange. And yet, so familiar. In the eyes of an angered man. In the sadness of a wise woman. Yes, you can observe structural transitions some-How. But it is that Why which makes you doubt if that really means anything. Look carefully. Do you dare question yourself?

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Philosophy Wire: How music affects us. So?

Sounds, such as music and noise, are capable of reliably affecting individuals' moods and emotions, possibly by regulating brain dopamine, a neurotransmitter strongly involved in emotional behavior and mood regulation. [1] Again, science answering the easy questions: The how. Again, science missing all the important questions: The why. Listen to the music. Sure, there is a mechanism for everything happening when you listen to it. In the same way there is a mechanism for everything happening when a rock is “listening” to the same music. Take a look at the rock. Take a close look. What do you hear?

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Philosophy Wire: Soggy cereal (once more)…

Philosophy Wire by Spiros Kakos [2015-09-19]: Science finally understands how the cereal you eat for breakfast gets soggy. [1] Another reason for the sympathizers of scientist to be happy. Another reason for those who understand that the “why” is more important than the “how” to feel sad… Let me eat my cereal now. They are soggy enough. Because I decided to soak them in milk. Without any particular reason at all. Just because I wanted to.

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