Shannon's theory is indeed all about the activity of successfully communicating. The result of a successful communication is measured as a reduction in Shannon entropy (uncertainty) in the receiver. That a reduction happened is evidence that communication was successful, i.e. there was activity.
Like Shannon entropy, physical entropy (thermodynamics) is a measure of the state of the system. The formula for Shannon entropy is almost identical, by the way.
But unlike Shannon's mathematical theory of communication, the physical entropy is not measured before and after to show an increase/decrease in physical entropy. If it were, then it would be speaking to the activity or process like Shannon's theory does.
At bottom, I suspect entropy per se (whether physical or Shannon) is something of a side issue to both of us - we are much more interested in the increase/decrease of it, the causation or process.
The "state of the system" is always changing. I think that what you and I seek is the unifying principle that integrates change in the dynamic, unified system that we call the Universe. Our suspicion is that this principle may be geometric, or logical (thus epistemological) at its base. It may be carried/mediated by fields within and beyond 4D space-time. We suppose there are yet other dimensions of the Universe that mankind is only now becoming accustomed to think about (as evidenced by string theory in all its forms): a 5th "timelike" dimension, at the very least, which accommodates the observations that have been made about non-local (temporally and spatially) causation, and superposition (simultaneity of events in 4D space and time that cannot be accounted for within the ordinary measurement systems/categories of 4D space-time).
cornelis suggested in an earlier post that my goal may be the eventual validation of a theory of a "world soul." Good grief! Is the Logos -- the fundamental logic or geometry that laid (and lays) down the foundation of All that exists -- God's spoken Word of the Beginning (i.e., the constituting event of the "Big Bang"), Who "was God and Who was with God" -- a "world soul?" This is not my understanding at all. And I strongly doubt it is yours either, Alamo-Girl.
In short, I am no pantheist. There is no homogeneous "world soul." All souls are unique. They may be joined to Christ, and thus become members of a wider community of souls. But since God created all souls free, they may not in principle be "commandeered" to serve in any community or collective.
Spent the day today down on Cape Cod. A furious Northeaster has been blowing down there the past two days. Today, we clocked wind gusts at +70 mph. Plus it rained, heavily (several inches, and still raining). The breakers on the beach are unbelievable -- big-time surging tides. Very unseasonable meteorological activity for this time of year, in these parts. Expected to last through Tuesday....
The joys of living in New England! :^)
Well them be my thoughts of the evening. Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers!
Good night, dear Alamo-Girl, and to All!