Lyndsay G.M. Gordon

11 Guildford Tce., Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand. E-mail: [email protected]

Received: 29 August 2003 / Accepted: 17 December 2003 / Published: 21 March 2004

Abstract: Classical and quantum aspects of fluctuations are reviewed in a discussion on the universality of the second law. Consideration is given to the need of information and the requirement of a ratchet and pawl-type mechanism for the utilization of energy from fluctuations. Some aspects of the quantum theory of the Copenhagen school are compared to those of Bohm within the discussion.

Keywords: Szilard; ratchets; second law; Maxwell's demon; quantum theory; Bohm.