Von Neumann Entropy and Evolution

Abstract

In this paper I outline a hypothesis where quantum information in the form of von Neumann entropy provides a universal driving force for increasing complexity of systems and for evolutionary processes. Interference between quantum states of interacting systems allows storage of free energy that can be used to overcome kinetic barriers and accelerate reactions. This informational work cycle is analogous to entanglement in quantum Carnot engines where energy is stored as phase or so-called phaseonium fuel. The von Neumann entropy subadditivity and Araki-Lieb inequality properties of combined states can lower effective entropy and favour routes to increasing complexity of systems. It is proposed that observed macroscopic evolutionary processes are the emergent manifestation of this microscopic informational drive to complexity.