The Limits to Entropy: Continuing Misuse of Thermodynamics in Environmental and Marxist Theory

• DOI: 10.1521/siso.2007.72.1.43
• Publication Date: 2008-01-17T15:10:27Z
• Authors: David Schwartzman
• Keywords: Contradiction; Surprise

The continuing use of Georgescu-Roegen's theory entropy by neo-Malthusians as foundational support for their views comes no surprise. Lately, those warning a Hubbert Peak apocalypse have commonly drawn from the same conceptual well. But unfortunately even Marxist scholars still do same. Paul Burkett's recent paper supporting fourth law thermodynamics attempts to seek convergence with ecological economics. However, this attempt is undermined very shaky foundations theory. In particular, proposed conflates isolated and closed systems, in contradiction thermodynamic theory, leads false conclusions regarding recycling prospects solarized economy. Red–green practice should be firmly based on robust With guide subject contingencies political struggle, an ecosocialist transition century within reach.