Justin Riddle #1 - Six Arguments for Quantum Consciousness

In this introduction to quantum consciousness, Justin Riddle presents six arguments that quantum consciousness is an important theory of mind. To summarize them briefly, (1) People typically identify as their latest technology and so most people believe that they are a digital computer. Time to update those models of self, because.... (2) Quantum computers are here. We wouldn't want the brick of metal in our pocket to have greater computational power than our brain. (3) People say the brain is too warm, wet, and noisy for quantum effects; yet, evidence keeps emerging for quantum effects in biology (such as photosynthesis). Where do we draw the line? (4) Evolution might be selecting for quantum systems that can maintain quantum coherence. (5) The debate around the role of quantum mechanics in consciousness has been raging for 100 years. Many key historical figures like Bohr, Schrodinger, Heisenberg, von Neumann entertained the idea that quantum mechanics might relate to our mind. (6) Physical theories that are purely deterministic have failed to account for key aspects of subjective experience. There may be novel answers from a perspective that incorporate new physics.

0:00 Introduction

1:26 1. People identify as their latest technology

4:07 2. Quantum computers are here

7:30 3. Biology utilizes quantum properties

12:00 4. Evolution selects for quantum systems

14:10 5. Historical precedent for quantum consciousness

16:30 6. Failure of physical theories to explain

a. Sense of self

b. Freewill

c. Meaning

21:07 Outro

Email: justinriddlepodcast@gmail.com

Twitter: @JRiddlePodcast

Music licensed from and created by Baylor Odabashian. BandCamp: @UnscrewablePooch

Painting behind me by Paul Seli. IG: @paul.seli.art