Does Consciousness Research Apply to Quantum Mechanics?

Otávio Bueno

Sudip Patra, Menas C. Kafatos

This is a unique text that explores quantum-like modelling frameworks that connect quantum mechanics with cognitive science and consciousness studies to propose a new ontological framework that transcends traditional boundaries between physics, philosophy, and cognitive science. The book develops along two complementary paths. First, it explores quantum-like modelling, an exciting emerging field where researchers apply logical and mathematical structures from quantum mechanics and information theory to cognitive modelling and decision science. Second, it investigates the profound links between quantum science and consciousness studies, incorporating insights from advanced mathematical frameworks such as category theory. By synthesizing these two approaches, the authors propose a novel framework termed 'quantum-like reality' that moves beyond pragmatic modelling to offer deeper ontological thinking that can enrich both foundational understanding and applied research. This will be an interesting read for students and researchers working at the intersection of quantum physics, cognitive science, and consciousness studies.

Barry K. Ward

Gao, Shan

Abstract Consciousness and quantum mechanics are two mysteries in our times. A careful and thorough examination of possible connections between them may help unravel these two mysteries. On the one hand, an analysis of the conscious mind and psychophysical connection seems indispensable in understanding quantum mechanics and solving the notorious measurement problem. On the other hand, it seems that in the end quantum mechanics, the most fundamental theory of the physical world, will be relevant to understanding consciousness and even solving the mind-body problem when assuming a naturalist view. This book is the first volume which provides a comprehensive review and thorough analysis of intriguing conjectures about the connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics. Written by leading experts in this research field, this book will be of value to students and researchers working on the foundations of quantum mechanics and philosophy of mind.

Pabitra Pal Choudhury, Swapan Kumar Dutta, Sk. Sarif Hassan +1 more

In this paper, we have first given an intuitive definition of "Consciousness" as realized by us. Next, from this intuitive definition we derived the physical definition of quantum consciousness (Quantum Consciousness Parameter or QCP). This QCP is the elementary level of consciousness in quantum particles, which are the most elementary particles in nature. Thus QCP can explain both the perceptible and non-perceptible nature and some existing postulates of physics. We conceptualize that the level of human consciousness is most complex having highest fractal dimension of 4.85 in the electroencephalographs experiment done by other research groups. On the other hand, other species are having lesser consciousness level, which can be reflected by lesser fractal dimensions. We have also explored the bio informatics of consciousness from genome viewpoints where we tried to draw an analogy of neurons with electrons and photons. Lastly, we refine the quantum mechanics in terms of QCP; we all know that in Einstein's special theory of relativity, Einstein has used the postulate "Consistency of the velocity of light irrespective of all frames of reference (inertial or non-inertial frames)". In our theoretical revelation QCP can be directly applied to get a confirmatory proof of this postulate. Thus the postulate can be framed as a law.

Paavo Pylkkänen