The Ξ-Constant: A Universal Theory of Emergence

Read full text
Authors: Marcel Welsch
Cited by: 0

Abstract

This work introduces the universal, dimensionless Xi Constant, a quantitative measure of stability and emergence for systems of any kind. Xi is defined using the fundamental axioms of information capacity I_k, dynamic decay rate D_m, and normalized extreme-value pressure DeltaE in [0,1]. The constant is given by: Xi(S) = t_P * DeltaE(S) * min(I_k(S)/D_m(S), 1/t_P) where t_P is the Planck time. Xi quantifies the efficient occupation of a system's stability space and reaches a universal fixed point Xi_* = 1 at maximal emergent order. The theory links microscopic dynamics to macroscopic structure, provides a scale-invariant perspective on emergence, and is fully consistent with known physical constants and fundamental informational limits. Applications are discussed across physical, biological, social, and cosmological systems. Limitations regarding operationalization are outlined, and directions for simulations, empirical measurements, and interdisciplinary research are proposed. The Xi constant provides a robust, universal framework that allows stability and emergence to be quantitatively compared without replacing domain-specific mechanisms.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Complex Systems and Dynamics Advanced Mathematical Theories and Applications Chaos Complexity and Education

Publication details

Journal / source
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Publication date
18 January 2026
Language
EN
Document type
Preprint