Quantum measurements are physical processes. Comment on "Consciousness and the double-slit interference pattern: Six experiments," By Dean Radin et al. [Physics Essays 25, 2 (2012)]

TL;DR

This paper critiques Radin et al.'s claim that consciousness influences quantum measurement, emphasizing that standard quantum mechanics explains measurement without psychophysical factors and urging parapsychologists to seek better explanations.

Contribution

It clarifies that quantum measurements are purely physical processes and challenges the interpretation that consciousness affects wave function collapse.

Findings

Quantum mechanics explains measurement without consciousness.

Radin et al.'s experiments do not demonstrate consciousness-induced collapse.

Parapsychology should seek alternative explanations for quantum phenomena.

Abstract

The validity of the assertion that some recent double-slit interference experiments, conducted by Radin et al., would have tested the possible role of the experimenter's mind in the collapse of the quantum wave function, is questioned. It is emphasized that quantum mechanics doesn't need any psychophysical ingredient to explain the measurement processes, and therefore parapsychologists shouldn't resort to the latter to support the possibility of psychokinesis, but search for more convincing explanations.