Quantum physics: A better model to understand consciousness-related brain functions
Ziyu Li
Theoretical and Natural Science May 10, 2024 DOI: 10.54254/2753-8818/34/20241123 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that quantum physics, rather than classical physics, can explain consciousness-related brain functions, proposing that the phospholipid bilayer protects quantum information and that 1/2-spin phosphorus enables entanglement for long-distance information transfer and conscious processing. Cites Schrödinger's cat as a model for superimposed states in yes/no decisions and cites brain entanglement observations as challenging the view that entanglement cannot persist in the brain's chaotic environment. |
Abstract
With the development of quantum mechanics, it is applied to different fields, including biology. As intricate as human brains, quantum physics is replacing classical physics in explaining consciousness-related brain functions. The bilayer phospholipid membrane enables neurons in the brain to store and protect quantum information, and the abundance of 1/2-spin phosphorous creates potential for quantum entanglement that allows information to transfer along long distances and process consciousness. Scientists have used Schrdinger's cat thought experiment to explain how the uncertain and superimposed states in quantum physics can be applied to our decision-making behavior with conditions of "Yes" or "No." Scientists also conducted experiments to witness the quantum entanglement of particles in the brain. The observation of the phenomenon broke the pre-assumption that quantum entanglement is too fragile to occur in the chaotic environment in human brains, and it allows the possibility of ongoing conscious processing there. To further understand the decision-making mechanism, physicists should also integrate the knowledge in neuroscience, psychology, sociology, and other interdisciplinary subjects.