Internal quantum constraints of natural computation in autopoietic systems.

Abstract

Time relates to actualization, which is physically interpreted as a quantum measurement. The measurement has a dual structure consisting of the reality being measured (externality) and the reality by which the measurement takes place (an agent or ontolon). These two constituents refer to the two types of time: physical time measured by clocks, and internal time, defined by Bergson as la durée (duration). The latter holds the coherent internal quantum state of entangled potentialities, while the former represents the collapse of this state, thereby flowing through quantum transactions. This view unifies the Everett (Many-worlds) and the Copenhagen (Wave function collapse) interpretations of the quantum measurement. Time as a duration can be estimated via the energy-time uncertainty relation, which links the precision of the measurement result to the value of energy dissipation during it and to its span. The precision of the measurement result enables the process of quantum computation, which emerges in the systems characterized by internal closure, i.e., autopoietic (living) systems operating at the state of sustainable non-equilibrium. Energy dissipation in the process of measurement occurs as the emission of quanta that trigger the collapse of the coherent entangled state. These quanta are recognized in the system, enabling the performance of higher-level control over elementary computational actions through their integration within the complex system. It is concluded that the energy-time uncertainty relation represents the fundamental internal quantum constraint of natural computation, the process that spans from enzymatic catalysis to complex regulatory and adaptive activities, and finally to reflexive consciousness.