Quantum Mechanics & Mind-Body Problem: Tempting Idea or Crap?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the relationship between quantum mechanics and the mind-body problem, questioning whether solutions to these two complex issues might be interconnected. It touches on the philosophical implications of consciousness and the challenges of understanding quantum mechanics, while also reflecting on societal interests that distract from these topics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that while quantum mechanics is pivotal in describing nature, its interpretation remains elusive, highlighting issues like the measurement problem and the nature of superposed states.
  • The mind-body problem is presented as a significant philosophical puzzle, with questions about the nature of consciousness and its relationship to physical reality.
  • Some participants propose that there may be a connection between the challenges of quantum mechanics and the mind-body problem, referencing figures like Wigner and Penrose, though this idea is met with skepticism.
  • Another participant comments on the general public's lack of interest in complex topics like quantum mechanics and the mind-body problem, attributing this to emotional engagement with more relatable subjects like celebrity news.
  • Several posts shift focus to the appropriateness of the thread title, suggesting that it may not align with the serious nature of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relevance of quantum mechanics to the mind-body problem, with some finding the connection tempting while others are skeptical. There is also a clear disagreement on the appropriateness of the thread title, with some participants advocating for a change.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a mix of serious philosophical inquiry and light-hearted commentary, indicating a potential tension between the depth of the topics and the casual nature of the conversation.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the intersections of philosophy, quantum mechanics, and consciousness studies may find the discussion engaging, as well as those curious about public perceptions of scientific topics.

Ratzinger
Messages
291
Reaction score
0
tempting idea, but crap?

The universe is quantum mechanically. But no one understands quantum mechanics, as Feynman put it.
On the one hand the pivotal role and accuracy of QM in describing nature. On the other hand the inability to interpret QM (1. quantum reality- what is a superposed state? 2. measurement problem- where and when does wave function collapse?) Often-told, but true story.

What is consciousness? What is that non-physical and completely subjective “thing” called consciousness/ mind/ qualia? The mind-body problem, the oldest and greatest puzzle in all of philosophy and sciences. Again, we have no way of approaching it.

1. Now, are the solutions to both problems related to each other?

I know that has been proposed by some serious figures (Wigner, Penrose) and a lot of less serious people and got always rejected by the majority view. I also can’t see no connection, but found the idea always very tempting.

2. Why do most people never heard of qm or the mind-body problem?
Instead are more interested in who Angie Jolie is dating with?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Because Angelina Jolie is hot (sort of). Since we are all humans sex is a VERY big thing in the back of all of our minds. It comes down to people being emotional aboot a topic, and most people (including myself) don't like to think that hard, so no one wants to learn QM. I find it difficult to learn science, and math, and I love both of them! How much less inclined would anyone be to learn aboot them, if they don't even care aboot the topic @ hand?
 
I'll give you a chance to change the topic name...Angie Jolie is not quite appropriate for the title.
 
But it does attract readers...
 
How about Jessica Alba? Beyonce? Or is Haley Berry more appropiate?
Whatever, tough rules here. But how do I change the topic name? Going to edit, rigth? And then?
 
Ratzinger said:
How about Jessica Alba? Beyonce? Or is Haley Berry more appropiate?
Whatever, tough rules here. But how do I change the topic name? Going to edit, rigth? And then?
:smile: :smile: :smile: you are great man :smile:

marlon
 
Ratzinger said:
Instead are more interested in who Angie Jolie is dating with?

yes i am;;;besides isn't she dating Brad Pitt now ?

marlon
 
It attracts readers because she is hawt!...

@ marlon: I think that was a marketing gimmick for their new movie ;)...she only likes 'em old lol.
 

Similar threads

QM & Consciousness: Feynman's Unanswered Questions
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
Undergrad Consciousness and quantum mechanics
  • · Replies 81 ·
3
Replies
81
Views
9K
Graduate Quantum Field theory vs. many-body Quantum Mechanics
  • · Replies 36 ·
2
Replies
36
Views
7K
Q: Exploring Metaphysics and Quantum Mechanics
  • · Replies 65 ·
3
Replies
65
Views
14K
Epothilone B study connected to 'Hard Problem of Consciousness' Model
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K
Quantum Self education in modern physics
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad A contradiction in quantum mechanics
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Graduate Is the future of quantum mechanics retrocausal?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
6K
Graduate Do we need quantum mechanics to explain biological stuff?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Undergrad Some (unrelated) questions about the measurement problem
  • · Replies 89 ·
3
Replies
89
Views
8K