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Topics in Cognitive Science

The Necker–Zeno Model for Bistable Perception

Harald Atmanspacher A, Thomas Filk A

Published Sep 11, 2013• 45 citations
Publisher

Abstract

A novel conceptual framework for theoretical psychology is presented and illustrated for the example of bistable perception. A basic formal feature of this framework is the non-commutativity of operations acting on mental states. A corresponding model for the bistable perception of ambiguous stimuli, the Necker-Zeno model, is sketched and some empirical evidence for it so far is described. It is discussed how a temporal non-locality of mental states, predicted by the model, can be understood and tested.

DOI
10.1111/tops.12044

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A novel conceptual framework for theoretical psychology is presented and illustrated for the example of bistable perception. A basic formal feature of this framework is the non-commutativity of operations acting on mental states. A corresponding model for the bistable perception of ambiguous stimuli, the Necker-Zeno model, is sketched and some empirical evidence for it so far is described. It is discussed how a temporal non-locality of mental states, predicted by the model, can be understood and tested.
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.
This paper attempts to address the question that whether the present physical or mathematical theories are sufficient to understand the complexities of human brain when it interacts with the external environment in the form of an auditory stimulus.There have been efforts reporting that the introduction of ambiguity in visual stimuli causes effects which can't be explained classically.In this paper,it is investigated whether ambiguity in auditory stimuli can introduce any non-classical effects in human brain.Simple experiments were performed on normal subjects where they listened to an ambiguous auditory signal and responded to a question with 'yes' or 'no'.The outcome of the test showed that the classical formula of total probability does not hold true in this case.Results were interesting and indicate that there is a definite non-classicality in mental states in perception of ambiguous audio stimuli.
Ambiguous optical illusions have been a paradigmatic object of fascination, research and inspiration in arts, psychology and video games. However, accurate computational models of perception of ambiguous figures have been elusive. In this paper, we design and train a deep neural network model to simulate human perception of the Necker cube, an ambiguous drawing with several alternating possible interpretations. Defining the weights of the neural network connection using a quantum generator of truly random numbers, in agreement with the emerging concepts of quantum artificial intelligence and quantum cognition, we reveal that the actual perceptual state of the Necker cube is a qubit-like superposition of the two fundamental perceptual states predicted by classical theories. Our results finds applications in video games and virtual reality systems employed for training of astronauts and operators of unmanned aerial vehicles. They are also useful for researchers working in the fields of machine learning and vision, psychology of perception and quantum–mechanical models of human mind and decision making.
Temporally non-local measurements – single measurements yielding information about the state of a system at different instances – may provide a way to observe non-classical behavior in mental systems. The signature for such behavior is a violation of temporal Bell inequalities. We present such inequalities applicable to scenarios with two alternating mental states, such as in the perception of ambiguous figures. We indicate empirical options for testing temporal Bell inequalities, and speculate about possible explanations in case these inequalities are indeed violated.
I introduce Quantum Entangled Perception, a theoretical framework in which an observer’s consciousness taps into the underlying quantum state by forming a temporary bidirectional quantum entanglement with distant persons, locations, or events across spacetime. This entanglement enables the direct, non-local access of highly specific visual and semantic information without conventional sensory input or prior knowledge. The phenomenon exhibits temporal bidirectionality and is most pronounced during states of deep relaxation and cognitive transcendence. This paper provides a formal definition, discusses potential physical mechanisms, and outlines testable predictions.
I introduce Quantum Entangled Perception, a theoretical framework in which an observer’s consciousness taps into the underlying quantum state by forming a temporary bidirectional quantum entanglement with distant persons, locations, or events across spacetime. This entanglement enables the direct, non-local access of highly specific visual and semantic information without conventional sensory input or prior knowledge. The phenomenon exhibits temporal bidirectionality and is most pronounced during states of deep relaxation and cognitive transcendence. This paper provides a formal definition, discusses potential physical mechanisms, and outlines testable predictions.