On a Model of Quantum Mechanics and the Mind
arXiv Preprint Archive April 2, 2014
Summary
The mysterious connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics may be deeper than we thought. New theoretical work explores how rapid mental observations could influence physical reality through the quantum Zeno effect - where continuous observation freezes quantum systems in place. The analysis reveals both promising paths and logical challenges in using quantum physics to explain consciousness, suggesting alternative frameworks for understanding the mind-brain relationship.
Abstract
In this paper I discuss Stapp's (2014) interesting proposal of using the Quantum Zeno Effect to account for the mind/matter interaction. In particular, I discuss some of the motivations for it, and then argue that, in his current version, his model is circular (a solution to this, proposed by Kathryn Laskey, is presented), insofar as the mind/matter problem is concerned. I also present an alternative approach to some of the appealing aspects of using quantum mechanics to think about consciousness.