The Physics of Dissipative Coherence: A Unified Thermodynamic Framework for Agency and Systemic Pathology

This registration documents a unified thermodynamic framework reconciling the Second Law of Thermodynamics with the emergence of persistent agency. We propose a formal refinement to Prigogine’s theory of Dissipative Structures, distinguishing between Passive Coherence (reactive systems coupled directly to gradients) and Active Coherence (predictive systems that perform work to maintain boundary conditions). We identify the "Complexity Gap" (C_G > 1/τ) as the thermodynamic threshold necessitating the transition to active modeling. Furthermore, we redefine systemic pathology as Regulatory Insolvency: a quantitative state where the metabolic cost of reducing uncertainty exceeds the system's maximum heat dissipation capacity (β·Ḟ > Q_max). The project establishes a universal taxonomy of failure modes (Rigidity, Instability, Decoupling, and Collapse) applicable to biological, social, and mechanical systems.