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Criminal procedure and quantum Zeno effect

Bartosz W. Wojciechowski

Published Aug 1, 2023• 0 citations

Abstract

The quantum Zeno effect is the suppression of unitary time evolution in quantum systems and can be caused by measurement or interactions with the environment. It is a feature of a systems under which time evolution of a particle can be slowed down by measuring it frequently enough. In other words, when a system is being constantly watched, it cannot change. Evolution of the system can be slowed down or even frozen by the act of frequent measurement or interaction with the environment. The name of the phenomena comes from Zeno’s arrow paradox, which states that because an arrow in flight is not seen to move during any single instant, it cannot possibly be moving at all. In this chapter, we will present results of a study conducted on a group of 45 judges adjudicating in criminal cases. We will analyse if preliminary rulings, interim orders and other numerous intermediate decisions related to the course of the criminal trial and affect the final judgement of the case. The findings show whether a quantum effect can be observed in the criminal trials.

DOI: 10.4324/9781003402480-5

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