Author: Clarke, Chris

Source: Mind and Matter, Volume 5, Number 1, 2007 , pp. 45-81(37)

Publisher: Imprint Academic

Abstract:

I argue that a dual-aspect theory of consciousness, associated with a particular class of quantum states, can provide a consistent account of consciousness. I illustrate this with the use of coherent states as this class. The proposal meets Chalmers 'requirements of allowing a structural correspondence between consciousness and its physical correlate. It provides a means for consciousness to have an effect on the world (it is not an epiphenomenon, and can thus be selected by evolution) in a way that supplements and completes conventional physics, rather than interfering with it. I draw on the work of Hameroff and Penrose to explain the consistency of this proposal with decoherence, while adding details to this work. The proposal is open to extensive further research at both theoretical and experimental levels.

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Faculty of Mathematical Studies, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, Email: cclarke@scispirit.com

Publication date: 2007-01-01

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• In this Subject: Neurology & Psychiatry ,  Philosophy ,  Neuropsychology
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