A question about the other observers

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretations of Thomas Breuer's work on quantum mechanics and the concept of a "distinguished observer." Participants explore the implications of Breuer's theories, particularly regarding consciousness, free will, and the nature of observers in quantum mechanics. The conversation includes critiques of a specific interpretation presented by another forum user, questioning its validity and coherence within the broader context of quantum theory.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants summarize Breuer's claims that observers do not see themselves obeying usual physical laws and that their behavior is unpredictable.
  • There is a suggestion that the apparent behavior of others may not correspond to conscious observers but rather to a series of probabilistic models.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the validity of the claims made by the original poster, suggesting they may have misinterpreted Breuer's work.
  • Another participant mentions that Breuer's ideas are largely unpopular and question the relevance of his theories to contemporary discussions in physics.
  • Some participants express confusion about the implications of Breuer's work, particularly regarding solipsism and the nature of consciousness in relation to quantum mechanics.
  • Links to Breuer's original papers are shared, with some participants indicating that these do not support the claims made by the original poster.
  • There are humorous remarks about the possibility of being "probabilistic Turing machines" and the implications of such a view on free will and consciousness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the original poster's claims. There are multiple competing views regarding the interpretation of Breuer's work, with some expressing skepticism and others questioning the coherence of the original claims.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that Breuer's work is not widely discussed or accepted within the physics community, and there are references to the age of his papers. The discussion reflects a range of interpretations and uncertainties regarding the implications of quantum mechanics on consciousness and observer behavior.

  • #31
EclogiteFacies said:
What about post #21?

I didn't get the impression you were hinting at staclexchange stuff being right

Correct.
 
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  • #32
AlexCaledin said:
we can know, in principle, the observable properties of any particularly interesting thing, even of some piece of a human brain

Yes, if you only need to know particular observable properties that are compatible with each other.

AlexCaledin said:
all such properties together do specify the actual spacetime universe

You can't know all such properties together. You can only know a subset of them. That subset is not sufficient to specify an entire state for the universe.
 
  • #33
EclogiteFacies said:
What about post #21?

I didn't get the impression you were hinting at staclexchange stuff being right

I'm going to give Hartle's work a read.
Thanks for everything!

Honestly mate don't worry about it. That stackexchange stuff was nutty...
 
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