Experiments Prepare to Test Whether Consciousness Arises from Quantum Weirdness
Researchers are exploring the link between consciousness and quantum mechanics, proposing experiments on xenon isotopes and qubit-brain organoid coupling to enhance understanding of consciousness through quantum phenomena.
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Researchers are preparing to conduct experiments to explore the potential link between consciousness and quantum mechanics. The brain, while seemingly disconnected from quantum phenomena, may actually be influenced by quantum effects, particularly through the collapse of quantum states. Roger Penrose proposed that consciousness arises when a superimposed quantum state collapses, suggesting a connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics. However, this idea has faced criticism, particularly regarding the implications of entangled qubits and faster-than-light communication.
In a new perspective, researchers propose that consciousness may emerge when a system enters a quantum superposition rather than when it collapses. This aligns with the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics, which posits that every quantum event spawns multiple universes. The researchers suggest three experiments to investigate these ideas, starting with the effects of xenon isotopes on fruit flies and cerebral organoids. The second experiment aims to couple qubits with brain organoids to explore entanglement, while the final conceptual experiment envisions enhancing consciousness through engineered quantum states. These studies could bridge the gap between quantum mechanics and neuroscience, potentially expanding our understanding of consciousness.
- Researchers are investigating the relationship between consciousness and quantum mechanics.
- Roger Penrose's theory links consciousness to the collapse of quantum states.
- A new perspective suggests consciousness arises from quantum superpositions.
- Proposed experiments include studying xenon isotopes and coupling qubits with brain organoids.
- The research aims to enhance understanding of consciousness through quantum science.
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1 comments- The researchers will not give a testable definition of consciousness.
- The researchers will indeed find that the biochemistry of brains are affected by quantum effects. Something we know already because chemistry is atoms and atoms are quantum mechanical objects.
- No progress will be made in the measurement problem (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Measurement_problem).
So it's difficult to see that anything at all can come from these "experiments"
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