Experiment-dependent priors in psychology and physics

Robert F. Bordley

Ehtibar N. Dzhafarov, Janne V. Kujala

Douglas Snyder

Ivan S. Maksymov, Ganna Pogrebna

This paper introduces a novel quantum-mechanical model that describes psychological phenomena using the analogy of a harmonic oscillator represented by an electron trapped in a potential well. Study 1 demonstrates the application of the proposed model to bistable perception of ambiguous figures (i.e., optical illusions), exemplified by the Necker cube. While prior research has theoretically linked quantum mechanics to psychological phenomena, in Study 2 we demonstrate a viable physiological connection between physics and bistable perception. To that end, the model draws parallels between quantum tunneling of an electron through a potential energy barrier and an eye blink, an action known to trigger perceptual reversals. Finally, we discuss the ability of the model to capture diverse optical illusions and other psychological phenomena, including cognitive dissonance.

S. Steenstrup

Amrit Šorli

Clocks are systems for measuring frequency, velocity, duration and numerical order ntttt.......,, 210 of physical events. Time t obtained with clocks is not a forth dimension 4X of space, time t is only a component of tciX ∗∗=4. This view of clock/time as a measuring system sees physical phenomena running exclusively in space and not in time. This view is supported with several experiments which confirm that time t of physical event can be zero. Time is not part of space; time is run of clocks in space. Past, present and future exist as a psychological time in the mind only not in the universe. We experience motion i.e. change in the space through the frame of psychological time. We “project ” linear psychological time “past-present-future ” into the space, however it is not there. Observer who distinguishes between space-time, physical time and psychological time is aware that in quantum measurement he only measures physical events in space and not in time. Clock/time is merely a measuring device. With this understanding observer’s observation, measurement and experience of quantum phenomena are closer to their real nature. Stream of numerical order of quantum phenomena ntttt.......,, 210 runs in space only and not in time. Stream of quantum phenomena has no duration on its own. Duration is result of measurement.