Consciousness, Quantum Mechanics, and the Limits of Scientific Objectivism
John B. Debrota, Christian List
PhilPapers (PhilPapers Foundation) April 14, 2026 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2604.14234 via OpenAlex
Summary
Consciousness and quantum mechanics both challenge the classical objectivist worldview of science, suggesting a connection that some scholars dispute. This paper highlights how both phenomena conflict with metaphysical theses like 'non-relationalism', 'non-fragmentation', and 'one world'. It identifies three non-objectivist responses: 'relationalist', 'fragmentalist', and 'many-subjective-worlds', and discusses their advantages and disadvantages.
Study at a glance
| Design | programmatic paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Both consciousness and quantum mechanics challenge the classical objectivist worldview of science. |
Abstract
Consciousness and quantum mechanics are among the most puzzling phenomena studied in the sciences. Some scholars suggest they are related, though others think this claim commits a "minimization of mystery" fallacy. The aim of this programmatic paper is to draw attention to a less widely discussed parallel between consciousness and quantum mechanics: both challenge the classical objectivist worldview of science. Under certain assumptions, they are each in tension with a package of metaphysical theses -- "non-relationalism", "non-fragmentation", and "one world" -- that jointly make up that worldview. This points to three distinct non-objectivist responses: the "relationalist", "fragmentalist", and "many-subjective-worlds" ones. We will map out their pros and cons.