Quantum Clocks and the Origin of Time in Complex Systems

Abstract

The origin and nature of time in complex systems is explored using quantum (or 'Feynman') clocks and the signals produced by them. Networks of these clocks provide the basis for the evolution of complex systems. The general concept of 'time' is translated into the 'lifetimes' of these unstable configurations of matter. 'Temporal phase transitions' mark the emergence of classical properties such as irreversibility, entropy, and thermodynamic arrows of time. It is proposed that the creation of the universe can be modeled as a quantum clock. Keywords: the problem of time, the arrow of time, time asymmetry, the many-body problem, cellular networks, complexity, the Wheeler-DeWitt equation, quantum cosmology, and instantons.