Consciousness, Quantum Mechanics, and the Limits of Scientific Objectivism
PhilPapers (PhilPapers Foundation) April 14, 2026 John B. Debrota, Christian List
Consciousness and quantum mechanics both challenge the classical objectivist worldview of science, which assumes non-relationalism, non-fragmentation, and a single world. This programmatic paper explores a less discussed parallel: under certain assumptions, each phenomenon is in tension with these metaphysical theses. It outlines three non-objectivist responses—relationalist, fragmentalist, and many-subjective-worlds—and maps their pros and cons. The paper does not argue that consciousness and quantum mechanics are directly related, but that they similarly undermine objectivist assumptions, offering a framework for understanding both.