Exploring the Physics Implications

Joseph Shipman

This paper reviews connections between physics and computation, and explores their implications. The main topics are computational "hardness" of physical systems, computational status of fundamental theories, quantum computation, and the Universe as a computer.

Natalia Duxbury

W. Wayt Gibbs

Craig E. Richards

Abstract This article explores one of the profound complementarities in quantum physics and psychology: the reflexive nature of observation both on the objective (physics) and the subjective (psychological) side. It seeks to provide a logical chain of evidence from quantum mechanics to quantum effects in biological systems, to quantum effects in neurological systems. It then discusses the implications for psychology and pedagogy. Should quantum theory become the dominant paradigm for explaining consciousness, the implications for psychology are profound indeed. However, neuroplasticity, whether explained by classical or quantum effects, has already launched a revolution in our understanding of how changing one's intentions and thoughts affects both behavior and the brain.