Catastrophe theory; geniuses and maniacs (2011)
The article discusses catastrophe theory and draws parallels between geniuses and maniacs, exploring how small changes in circumstances can lead to sudden, dramatic shifts in behavior or outcomes. It reflects on the fine line between brilliance and madness, suggesting that both states may emerge from similar underlying conditions.
Background
- René Thom invented catastrophe theory in the 1960s/70s as a branch of mathematics that models how small, continuous changes can cause sudden, dramatic shifts (e.g., a bridge collapsing under gradual load). It was hailed as a revolutionary way to explain discontinuous events in biology, economics, and physics.