Is There a Link Between Quantum Mechanics and Consciousness?
Brain, Mind and Consciousness in the History of Neuroscience 2014 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-8774-1_15 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Wave function Quantum mechanic Quantum state Quantum theory Human consciousness |
| Key points | Argues that the link between quantum mechanics and consciousness remains problematic, with each interpretation facing significant challenges, and that 'Interactive Decoherence' further complicates theories of quantum-dependent brain function. |
Abstract
This essay examines the link (if any) between quantum mechanics and consciousness and the problem of interpretation. The ‘measurement problem’ that arises from the ‘Copenhagen Interpretation’ is discussed and alternative interpretations such as Everett’s ‘Parallel Worlds’, Bohm’s ‘Hidden Variables’ and the ‘Heisenberg-Dirac Propensity’ interpretations are examined. The role of consciousness in the ‘Parallel Worlds’ theory is examined in greater detail together with quantum theories of mind due to Stapp, Eccles, Hodgson and Penrose. The affect of ‘Interactive Decoherence’ on proposed theories of quantum dependant brain function is also discussed.