Variations on chaos in physics: from unpredictability to universal laws

TL;DR

This paper explores the misconceptions surrounding Chaos Theory and argues that, contrary to popular belief, it enhances predictability and universality in physics rather than undermining them.

Contribution

It clarifies the true scientific meaning of Chaos Theory and demonstrates how it can lead to more precise and universal predictions in physics.

Findings

Chaos Theory can improve predictability in complex systems.

Misunderstandings about chaos hinder scientific progress.

Chaos Theory supports the development of universal laws.

Abstract

The tremendous popular success of Chaos Theory shares some common points with the not less fortunate Relativity: they both rely on a misunderstanding. Indeed, ironically , the scientific meaning of these terms for mathematicians and physicists is quite opposite to the one most people have in mind and are attracted by. One may suspect that part of the psychological roots of this seductive appeal relies in the fact that with these ambiguous names, together with some superficial clich{\'e}s or slogans immediately related to them ("the butterfly effect" or "everything is relative"), some have the more or less secret hope to find matter that would undermine two pillars of science, namely its ability to predict and to bring out a universal objectivity. Here I propose to focus on Chaos Theory and illustrate on several examples how, very much like Relativity, it strengthens the position it seems to contend with at first sight: the failure of predictability can be overcome and leads to precise, stable and even more universal predictions.