Consciousness, Quantum Mechanics, and the Limits of Scientific Objectivism

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.

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Abstract

Consciousness and quantum mechanics are among the most puzzling phenomena studied in the sciences. Some scholars suggest they are related, though others think this claim commits a "minimization of mystery" fallacy. The aim of this programmatic paper is to draw attention to a less widely discussed parallel between consciousness and quantum mechanics: both challenge the classical objectivist worldview of science. Under certain assumptions, they are each in tension with a package of metaphysical theses -- "non-relationalism", "non-fragmentation", and "one world" -- that jointly make up that worldview. This points to three distinct non-objectivist responses: the "relationalist", "fragmentalist", and "many-subjective-worlds" ones. We will map out their pros and cons.