Bohm`s Quantum Potential Approach to Consciousness from the Perspective of a Four-Valued Logic

A theoretical article draws a parallel between David Bohm's realistic interpretation of quantum physics and Gotthard Günther's generalization of classical two-valued logic, which was designed to meet the ontological demands of quantum physics and cybernetics. Both fields introduced information and consciousness into scientific terminology, requiring reflection in logic, ontology, and the theory of science. Bohm suggested expanding his model by generalizing and iterating the quantum potential to include consciousness and mental states in a new psycho-physical theory. The article proposes Günther's four-valued logical system of meaning/reflection as a theoretical scientific framework for this expansion and discusses its ontological implications.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Parallel to David Bohm´s development of a realistic interpretation of quantum physics, German philosopher and logician Gotthard Günther worked on a generalization of the classical two-valued logic to satisfy the ontological requirements of quantum physics as well as of cybernetics. Both of these new disciplines introduced information and consciousness into the terminology of science. These terms and concepts need to be reflected in logic, ontology and the theory of science. David Bohm suggested an expansion of his own model by generalization and iteration of the quantum potential to include consciousness and mental states into a new psycho-physical theory. This article proposes Günther´s four-valued logical system of meaning/reflection as a theoretical scientific frame for this expansion of Bohm´s theory and discusses its ontological implications.