Faculty Articles
Quantum effects in the understanding of consciousness
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Integrative Neuroscience
ISSN
0219-6352
Publication Date
6-1-2014
Abstract
This paper presents a historical perspective on the development and application of quantum physics methodology beyond physics, especially in biology and in the area of consciousness studies. Quantum physics provides a conceptual framework for the structural aspects of biological systems and processes via quantum chemistry. In recent years individual biological phenomena such as photosynthesis and bird navigation have been experimentally and theoretically analyzed using quantum methods building conceptual foundations for quantum biology. Since consciousness is attributed to human (and possibly animal) mind, quantum underpinnings of cognitive processes are a logical extension. Several proposals, especially the Orch OR hypothesis, have been put forth in an effort to introduce a scientific basis to the theory of consciousness. At the center of these approaches are microtubules as the substrate on which conscious processes in terms of quantum coherence and entanglement can be built. Additionally, Quantum Metabolism, quantum processes in ion channels and quantum effects in sensory stimulation are discussed in this connection. We discuss the challenges and merits related to quantum consciousness approaches as well as their potential extensions.
DOI
10.1142/S0219635214400093
Volume
13
Issue
2
First Page
229
Last Page
252
NSUWorks Citation
Hameroff, S. R.,
Craddock, T. J.,
Tuszynski, J. A.
(2014). Quantum effects in the understanding of consciousness. Journal of Integrative Neuroscience, 13(2), 229-252.
Available at: https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cps_facarticles/938
