Quantum mechanics, objective reality, and the problem of consciousness

Understanding how brain processes produce subjective experience requires probing the nature of physical reality, which leads to quantum physics and a second gap between quantum and classical reality. A philosophical framework is proposed that addresses both gaps simultaneously. Analysis of quantum mechanics leads to the notion of a hidden reality and the postulate that consciousness is an integral component of this reality. The framework provides philosophical underpinnings for a theory of consciousness while resolving the interpretation problem in quantum mechanics without altering its mathematical structure. Implications for a scientific theory of consciousness are discussed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The hard problem in consciousness is the problem of understanding how physical processes in the brain could give rise to subjective conscious experience. In this paper, I suggest that in order to understand the relationship between consciousness and the physical world, we need to probe deeply into the nature of physical reality. This leads us to quantum physics and to a second explanatory gap: that between quantum and classical reality. I will seek a philosophical framework that can address these two gaps simultaneously. Our analysis of quantum mechanics will naturally lead us to the notion of a hidden reality and to the postulate that consciousness is an integral component of this reality. The framework proposed in the paper provides the philosophical underpinnings for a theory of consciousness while satisfactorily resolving the interpretation problem in quantum mechanics without the need to alter its mathematical structure. I also discuss some implications for a scientific theory of consciousness.