The Principle that Generates Configuration in Animate and Inanimate Systems – a unified view

Abstract

The generation of flow configuration (shape, structure, patterns) is a phenomenon that occurs across the board, in animate and inanimate flow systems. Scientists have struggled to understand the origins of this phenomenon. What determines the geometry of natural flow systems? Is geometry a characteristic of natural flow systems? Are they following the rule of any law? Here we show that the emergence of configuration in animate flow systems is analogous to the emergence of configuration in inanimate flow systems, and that features can be put on a unifying theoretical (physics) basis, which is provided by the constructal law. All scientific endeavors are based on the existence of universality, which manifests itself in diverse ways. Here we also explore the idea that complex flow systems with similar functions have a propensity to exhibit similar behavior. Based on this thought relationships that characterize animate systems are tested in relation to cities and countries, and some conclusions are drawn.