Is the observer truly separate from the observed?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the philosophical and quantum mechanical implications of the observer's role in measurement and perception. Participants consider whether the observer should be viewed as separate from the observed and the potential influence of the observer on experimental outcomes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that quantum physics indicates the observer changes the outcome of observations, raising questions about the objectivity of findings.
  • Others ponder whether any observation can be uninfluenced by the observer, questioning the nature of perception itself.
  • A participant humorously notes that the presence of certain individuals can disrupt experimental setups, implying a subjective influence on outcomes.
  • One participant reflects on philosophical ideas from Bishop Berkeley regarding perception and reality, linking these thoughts to the observer's influence in quantum mechanics.
  • Another participant expresses a playful stance on the poll options, indicating a refusal to choose either option, suggesting that predetermined choices affect participation in discussions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; multiple competing views remain regarding the influence of the observer on observations and the implications of this influence.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes philosophical considerations that may depend on varying interpretations of quantum mechanics and perception, which are not fully resolved within the thread.

What the quantum physicist be called?

  • Observer

    Votes: 3 50.0%
  • Participant

    Votes: 3 50.0%

  • Total voters
    6
energyflash
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This is just to be a bit of fun but also to express whether or not you think that the quantum physicist should be labelled an observer or a participant? And also why or why not? I mean I think this is such a great subject, but it may be really boring to some people!

(sorry about the spelling error in the poll - I don't know how to edit it!)
 
Last edited:
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Bishop Berkeley - perceiving perception

Fun topic!

I'm pondering a post about the observer function...

Doesn't Quantum physics, or at least observation of observation, show that the observer necessarily changes the outcome? I've been pondering, just like Quantum sciences makes for rethinking many things, wouldn't we have to accept that all findings are biased or at least influenced by the viewer? Huh?

Sorry to answer a question with a question, but Bishop Berkeley's writings about we only know what our perceptions perceive used to put me in a mental loop, now I'm just sharing that loop! he he..

Can ANY observation be uninfluenced by the observer? Is this possible at all?
 
Teo1 said:
Can ANY observation be uninfluenced by the observer? Is this possible at all?

Nope, I'll take on any system you throw at me. :smile:
 
I've known people like that- no matter how carefully you set up the experiment for them, as soon as they get near the apparatus it all starts to come apart!:smile:
 
Teo1 said:
Fun topic!

I'm pondering a post about the observer function...

Doesn't Quantum physics, or at least observation of observation, show that the observer necessarily changes the outcome? I've been pondering, just like Quantum sciences makes for rethinking many things, wouldn't we have to accept that all findings are biased or at least influenced by the viewer? Huh?

Sorry to answer a question with a question, but Bishop Berkeley's writings about we only know what our perceptions perceive used to put me in a mental loop, now I'm just sharing that loop! he he..

Can ANY observation be uninfluenced by the observer? Is this possible at all?

Yes, using this poll I have observed it, out of the two options I have declined to check either boxes!

The two INITIAL options pre-determined my NO-Participation! :smile:

Q?..will my none-participation have a baring on the poll outcome? :approve:
 

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