What are quantum theorists doing at a conference on consciousness?
arXiv Preprint Archive February 9, 1996
Summary
Consciousness may play a fundamental role in shaping physical reality through quantum mechanics. The Born probability rule, a cornerstone of quantum physics (quant-ph), suggests that conscious observation actively selects one outcome from many possible realities. This implies consciousness operates outside physical laws while directly influencing our experienced world through non-local effects, challenging traditional views of mind-matter relationships.
Abstract
The reason why orthodox quantum theory necessarily invokes consciousness is explained. Several procedures whereby the Born probability rule can be introduced are discussed, and reasons are given for prefering one in which consciousness selects a unique realised world. Consciousness is something outside of the laws of physics (quantum mechanics), but it has a real effect upon the experienced world. Finally, orthodox quantum theory is shown to require that consciousness acts non-locally.