Consciousness and Quantum Mechanics

Scholars have proposed a deeper connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics, exploring the conscious mind and psychophysical connection can help understand quantum mechanics and solve the measurement problem. This volume, written by leading experts, provides a comprehensive review and analysis of conjectures about the connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics, valuable for students and researchers in physics, philosophy, and cognitive science.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Consciousness and quantum mechanics are two profound enigmas of our era, and scholars have recently proposed a more profound connection between them. Exploring this potential link can be highly fruitful, as an analysis of the conscious mind and its psychophysical connection can be invaluable in understanding quantum mechanics and resolving the notorious measurement problem. Moreover, there is likely a profound intimate connection between quantum mechanics, the most fundamental theory of the physical world, and our endeavors to explain consciousness, naturalistically.

The seventeen newly written chapters in this volume are organized into three sections: Consciousness and the Wave Function Collapse, Consciousness in Quantum Theories, and Quantum Approaches to Consciousness. This is the first volume to offer a comprehensive review and thorough analysis of intriguing conjectures about the connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics. Authored by esteemed experts in physics, philosophy, and cognitive science, Consciousness and Quantum Mechanics will be of immense value to students and researchers engaged in the foundations of quantum mechanics and the philosophy of mind.

In the first section, "Consciousness and the Wave Function Collapse," the authors delve into the intricate relationship between consciousness and the collapse of the wave function, a central concept in quantum mechanics. They explore various theories and perspectives on how consciousness might influence the collapse of the wave function, including the role of quantum decoherence and the measurement problem. The authors also discuss the implications of this connection for understanding the nature of reality and the mind-body problem.

The second section, "Consciousness in Quantum Theories," examines the various theories and models that propose a connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics. The authors discuss the emergence of consciousness from quantum processes, the role of quantum entanglement and superposition in consciousness, and the potential for quantum computing to simulate and enhance consciousness. They also explore the philosophical and metaphysical implications of these theories, including the nature of consciousness, free will, and the mind-body problem.

The third section, "Quantum Approaches to Consciousness," explores different approaches to understanding consciousness from a quantum perspective. The authors discuss the role of quantum information theory in explaining consciousness, the emergence of consciousness from quantum processes, and the potential for quantum computing to simulate and enhance consciousness. They also explore the relationship between consciousness and the brain, including the neuroscientific evidence for quantum phenomena and the challenges of mapping consciousness to the brain.

Overall, this volume provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the connection between consciousness and quantum mechanics. Written by leading experts in the field, it offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between these two realms and sheds light on the potential for a deeper understanding of the nature of reality and the human mind. Whether you are a student, researcher, or simply interested in the mysteries of the universe, Consciousness and Quantum Mechanics is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the frontiers of knowledge.

Weight: 930g
Dimension: 243 x 163 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197501665