On the distinction between beables and qualia
arXiv Preprint Archive February 11, 2025 via arXiv
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe de Broglie-Bohm interpretation of quantum mechanics and the hard problem of consciousness are mutually supporting. The beables (the actual, localized elements of reality in this interpretation) are not themselves qualia—the subjective, qualitative aspects of conscious experience—but are intimately related to them. The argument is that qualia are necessary for the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation, and conversely, that interpretation (or similar theories) is necessary for qualia. This reflexive, two-way relationship means each supports the existence of the other, offering an indirect route to addressing the hard problem of consciousness.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Philosophy of mind |
| Keywords | Quantum consciousness Quantum mechanics quant-ph Mind-body problem physics.hist-ph Quantum interpretation |
| Key finding | There is a reflexive two-way relationship between the beables of the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation and qualia, such that each supports the existence of the other, providing an indirect approach to the hard problem of consciousness. |
Abstract
The link between the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation and the hard problem of consciousness is investigated. We highlight that beables of the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation are not themselves qualia, but are intimately related to qualia. It is then argued that qualia are necessary for the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation, and conversely the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation (or similar theories) are necessary for qualia. Therefore, there is a reflexive two-way relationship between the beables of the de Broglie-Bohm interpretation and qualia such that they support the existence of each other. By using this reflexive argument, the hard problem of consciousness can be addressed via an indirect route.