Question of Consciousness: To Quantum Mechanics for the Answers

19 Pages Posted: 23 Apr 2014

See all articles by Ivan Karpenko

Ivan Karpenko

National Research University Higher School of Economics (Moscow)

Date Written: April 21, 2014

Abstract

The article looks at the possible role of measurement in a quantum-mechanical description of physical reality. The widely spread interpretations of quantum phenomena are considered as indicating an apparent connection between conscious processes (such as observation) and the properties of the microcosm. The reasons for discrepancies between the results of observations of the microcosm and macrocosm and the potential association of consciousness with these reasons are closely investigated. This connection can be interpreted in the sense that the probable requirement for a complete understanding of quantum theory is an adequate description of consciousness within this theory and that the correct theory of consciousness should include a quantum-mechanical theoretical apparatus. The author draws conclusions about the current state of the “measuring” problem and its relationship with consciousness.

Keywords: measurement, quantum mechanics, consciousness

JEL Classification: Z19

Suggested Citation

Karpenko, Ivan, Question of Consciousness: To Quantum Mechanics for the Answers (April 21, 2014). Higher School of Economics Research Paper No. WP BRP 44/HUM/2014, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2427253 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2427253

Ivan Karpenko (Contact Author)

National Research University Higher School of Economics (Moscow) ( email )

Myasnitskaya street, 20
Moscow, Moscow 119017
Russia

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