From Clocks to Chaos: The Rhythms of Life

by Leon Glass and Michael C. Mackey

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In an important new contribution to the literature of chaos, two distinguished researchers in the field of physiology probe central theoretical questions about physiological rhythms. Topics discussed include: How are rhythms generated? How do they start and stop? What are the effects of perturbation of the rhythms? How are oscillations organized in space? Leon Glass and Michael Mackey address an audience of biological scientists, physicians, physical scientists, and mathematicians, but the work assumes no knowledge of advanced mathematics.


Variation of rhythms outside normal limits, or appearance of new rhythms where none existed previously, are associated with disease. One of the most interesting features of the book is that it makes a start at explaining "dynamical diseases" that are not the result of infection by pathogens but that stem from abnormalities in the timing of essential functions. From Clocks to Chaos provides a firm foundation for understanding dynamic processes in physiology.

  • ISBN10 0691084955
  • ISBN13 9780691084954
  • Publish Date 21 August 1988 (first published 21 July 1988)
  • Publish Status Out of Print
  • Out of Print 13 August 1998
  • Publish Country US
  • Imprint Princeton University Press