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MENTAL MODEL · M6215

Principle of Least Action

Principle of Least Action
SystemsHigh supportSystems Theory
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Nature, when evolving from one state to another, always chooses the path that makes the "action" take a stationary value (usually the minimum). Light traveling in a straight line and water flowing downhill are manifestations of this principle.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

The minimalism of the universe. This is the supreme law of physics. It enlightens us: the most natural and compliant solution, in accordance with the way of heaven, is often the one with the least redundant actions. When designing systems, if it feels laborious, it indicates a violation of least action.

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Variational principle in physics: the evolution path of a system makes the "action" (integral of kinetic energy minus potential energy over time) take a stationary value (usually minimal). The mechanism uses global extremum to determine local motion.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Action_principlesZH · Explicit
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