《What is life? The physical aspect of the living cell》摘要

In "What is life? The physical aspect of the living cell," Erwin Schrödinger explores the intersection of physics and biology, probing deep questions about the nature of life from a scientific perspective. Published in 1944, the book establishes a framework that seeks to define living organisms not merely through biological terms but by examining their physical properties. Schrödinger lays out a compelling argument that life is fundamentally connected to the laws of physics, introducing concepts such as entropy and order. The book is structured around several key ideas, including the notion of a "code-script" that governs biological processes, which foreshadows later discoveries in genetics. Schrödinger emphasizes the importance of the genetic material as a repository of information, suggesting that understanding this "code" is vital to explaining life. He discusses the thermodynamic principles that govern cellular processes, arguing that living systems defy the typical trend of increasing entropy by maintaining a state of order through energy uptake and conversion. Throughout the text, Schrödinger draws on scientific principles alongside philosophical reflections, making it accessible to a broader audience while still engaging with complex scientific ideas. He posits that life should be seen as a non-computable system with capabilities that challenge classical physics, stimulating further inquiry into molecular biology and biophysics. Ultimately, "What is life?" serves as a foundational text that encourages readers to contemplate the physical underpinnings of living organisms and has significantly influenced fields ranging from biology to information theory. Schrödinger’s synthesis of physical laws and biological phenomena continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about the nature of life and consciousness.