Quantum Theories
Michael H. Herzog, Aaron Schurger, Adrien Doerig
Cambridge University Press eBooks April 23, 2026 DOI: 10.1017/9781009244701.010 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis paper critically examines quantum theories of consciousness, particularly orchestrated objective reduction (OrchOR), which proposes that proto-conscious events occur throughout the universe but full consciousness arises only at the subcellular level in neuronal microtubules. The authors outline challenges with this approach, arguing that existing theories linking consciousness to neural processes are insufficient and that quantum-based explanations face significant conceptual and empirical difficulties.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Consciousness Universe Reduction mathematics Quantum gravity Quantum field theory |
| Key finding | Argues that quantum theories of consciousness, specifically OrchOR, face unresolved challenges despite their proposal that proto-conscious events are universal and full consciousness is localized to microtubules. |
Abstract
All theories up to now relate consciousness to neural processes, circuits, etc. Quantum theories, such as orchestrated objective reduction (OrchOR), propose that proto-conscious events occur in the entire universe and full consciousness occurs only at the subcellular level in the microtubules of neurons. We outline challenges with this approach.