Coherent Energy Transfer and the Potential Implications for Consciousness

Abstract

The argument that biological systems are too “warm and wet” to support quantum effects is becoming increasingly antiquated as research in the field of quantum biology progresses. In fact, not only is it becoming apparent that quantum processes may regularly take place in biological systems, but these processes may underlie the mechanisms of consciousness and propel our models of conceptualizing the human brain into the next era of scientific understanding. The phenomena of consciousness have allured scientists and philosophers for thousands of years, while a precise technical understanding has remained elusive. If possible, developing this understanding will likely be one of humanity’s greatest achievements. Knowing the fundamental processes that create conscious experience has far-reaching implications, from the potential birth of true artificial intelligence to a better Journal of Cognitive Science 19-2:115-124, 2018 c2018 Institute for Cognitive Science, Seoul National University 116 J. Tory Toole, P. Kurian, T. J. A. Craddock understanding of mental health disorder etiologies and treatments. One major challenge in the mental health professions, and, ultimately, in empathy of any kind, is being able to see from and appreciate another person’s unique, subjective experience. Discoveries in the field of consciousness could help bridge this gap.