Decoherence, Quantum Zeno Effect, and the Efficacy of Mental Effort

TL;DR

This paper discusses a quantum theory of mind where mental effort influences brain activity through the Quantum Zeno Effect, unaffected by decoherence, potentially linking consciousness and physical brain processes.

Contribution

It introduces a relativistic quantum theory of mind that maintains mental influence via the Quantum Zeno Effect despite decoherence, extending Copenhagen quantum theory.

Findings

Quantum Zeno Effect remains effective despite decoherence.

The theory aligns with all validated predictions of classical and quantum physics.

Provides a framework linking consciousness with physical brain activity.

Abstract

Recent theoretical and experimental papers support the prevailing opinion that large warm systems will rapidly lose quantum coherence, and that classical properties will emerge. This rapid loss of coherence would naturally be expected to block any critical role for quantum theory in explaining the interaction between our conscious experiences and the physical activities of our brains. However, there is a quantum theory of mind in which the efficacy of mental effort is not affected by decoherence effects. In this theory the effects of mental action on brain activity is achieved by a Quantum Zeno Effect that is not weakened by decoherence. The theory is based on a relativistic version of von Neumann's quantum theory. It encompasses all the predictions of Copenhagen quantum theory, which include all the validated predictions of classical physical theory. In addition, it forges two-way dynamical links between the physical and experiential aspects of nature. The theory has significant explanatory power.