In this paper, we will explore the various mechanisms that have been put forth as explanations for the BNE, and we will see how the results of important experiments reinforce or contradict each of these models. We will pay close attention to the predictions made regarding the transition from the BNE to the RBNE for each model. After this, we will show how a statistical mechanics approach to the problem can be formulated and used to explore the BNE/RBNE transition.