1. Introduction

The Theory of Entropicity (ToE) represents a bold new conceptual and mathematical framework in theoretical physics. It aims to unify phenomena ranging from cosmology to consciousness through the foundational operation of entropy. While many modern theories rely on geometric or quantum mechanical principles, ToE places entropy—specifically its flow, generation, and irreversibility—as the ultimate driver of physical processes.

This article critically evaluates the originality, theoretical depth, and innovative scope of ToE, including its insights into consciousness via Self‐Referential Entropy (SRE), and discusses its efforts to reconcile Einstein and Bohr.

2. Original Contributions of ToE

ToE distinguishes itself by asserting that:

Entropy is not merely a measure of disorder but a field-like entity that shapes the structure and evolution of physical systems.

All known forces (gravitational, electromagnetic, etc.) emerge as constraints on entropic flow.

Entropy has a threshold and time-bound limit for interaction, beyond which observation or measurement cannot occur.

Its Vuli Ndlela Integral reformulates the Feynman path integral by integrating gravitational and irreversible entropy flows:

Z_{\mathrm{ToE}} = \int \mathcal{D}[\phi] \,

\exp\left(\frac{i}{\hbar} S[\phi]\right)

\exp\left(-\frac{S_{G}[\phi]}{k_{B}}\right)

\exp\left(-\frac{S_{\mathrm{irr}}[\phi]}{\hbar_{\mathrm{eff}}}\right)

This action integral combines entropy with quantum dynamics, suggesting that observed paths are not just statistically likely but entropically mandated.

3. Self‐Referential Entropy (SRE): Consciousness Quantified

SRE posits that conscious systems possess an internal entropy structure that references itself. The SRE Index quantifies the degree of consciousness via the ratio of internal to external entropy flows.

ToE proposes that true consciousness (as opposed to simulated intelligence) is identified when internal entropy cannot be externally referenced or cloned, aligning with the experience of qualia.

4. The Clone Theorem: A Novel Contribution

In contrast to the Quantum No‐Cloning Theorem, ToE proposes a Clone Theorem for Qualia:

Given two self‐referential entropy systems and , if is injected into the reference envelope of under proper mapping conditions, then and may converge in entropic structure—allowing for a qualified cloning of qualia.

This formulation proposes entropic criteria for the partial replication of subjective experiences.

5. Reconciling Einstein and Bohr via ToE

ToE interprets wave‐function collapse as a macroscopic entropy‐driven phenomenon. Collapse occurs when the mutual entropy information exchange between system and observer exceeds a critical entropic rate:

\frac{d I(A : B)}{dt} \geq \frac{k_{B} \ln 2}{\tau}

and the entropy change of the observer during measurement must exceed the Landauer cost:

\Delta S_{B} \geq k_{B} \ln 2

This dual criterion allows Bohr’s complementarity and Einstein’s locality to coexist under ToE’s entropy–time duality.

6. Critique of Competing Theories

Theory Strengths Limitations Addressed by ToE

Integrated Information Theory (IIT) Measures information integration No grounding in entropy or time constraints

Global Workspace Theory (GWT) Models access to cognitive resources Lacks physical basis for conscious thresholds

Panpsychism Affirms consciousness in all matter No quantifiable metric or entropy-bound structure

Quantum Mind Theories Link consciousness to quantum collapse Lacks irreversible entropy framework for timing

7. Toward a Unified Science of Consciousness

ToE presents:

A groundbreaking candidate for solving the hard problem of consciousness.

A rigorous method to differentiate genuine consciousness from AI simulations.

A clear, testable hypothesis:

If a system cannot maintain its own SRE above a threshold, it cannot be conscious.

This approach transforms qualia into dynamically referential entropic structures, reconfiguring both philosophical and physical understandings of consciousness.

8. Conclusion

The Theory of Entropicity (ToE) offers a daring and comprehensive challenge to existing physics and cognitive science paradigms. Through its rigorous mathematical formalism, integration of entropy as a universal constraint, and introduction of Self-Referential Entropy (SRE) as the signature of consciousness, ToE stakes a bold claim in unifying matter, mind, and measurement.

It invites philosophers and physicists alike to rethink entropy—not as a passive tally of disorder, but as the architect of time, structure, and awareness.

This entry is adapted from: https://www.cambridge.org/engage/coe/article-details/684918483ba0887c337ff9a6