arXiv Preprint Archive
March 9, 2001
Henry P. Stapp
Orthodox Copenhagen quantum theory abandons the quest to understand objective reality, focusing only on rules connecting observations. John von Neumann reformulated quantum theory as an evolving objective universe interacting with human consciousness, where a sudden change aligns the objective physical state with subjective psychical reality. This work addresses two obstacles to this view: reconciling it with relativistic quantum field theory (resolving a nonlocality issue) and explaining how a person's mind can affect brain activity within quantum theory. The proposed solution links effort, attention, and the quantum Zeno effect, accounting for unexplained psychological data.
arXiv Preprint Archive
November 26, 1997
Henry P. Stapp
The author responds to arguments that nonlinear classical mechanics, rather than quantum mechanics, provides the physical basis for consciousness. The reply defends the relevance of quantum mechanics to theories of mind by countering claims that classical nonlinear dynamics better explains conscious phenomena.
arXiv Preprint Archive
November 21, 1995
Henry P. Stapp
Standard quantum mechanics includes a deterministic, local process governed by equations of quantum field theory, and a second, nonlocal process that selects one actual reality from a range of possibilities. This second process is usually attributed to irreducible chance, which the author argues makes the theory non-naturalistic because it introduces an element outside the physical universe. The paper presents a quantum mechanical model of brain dynamics where this selection process is not random but is instead a causal, nonlocal physical process that can be identified with consciousness.
arXiv Preprint Archive
May 30, 1995
Henry P. Stapp
The paper presents a quantum model of the mind/brain, arguing that quantum mechanics can explain consciousness, qualia, and free will. It proposes that the self and personhood arise from quantum processes in the brain, and claims the model meets Baars's criteria for consciousness. The work is a theoretical and philosophical argument, not an empirical study.