A New Law of Nature Attempts to Explain the Complexity of the Universe

A new theory proposes that complexity in the universe increases over time, akin to entropy's rise in thermodynamics. This "law of increasing functional information" suggests complex life should be widespread. Developed by researchers including Robert Hazen and Michael Wong, it applies evolutionary principles to non-living systems, positing that entities are selected based on their ability to perform functions. While controversial, the theory could impact our understanding of life's origin, evolution, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.