Quantum Dynamics of Free Will
According to this theory, waveforms, within the matrix of a distributed system, allow fluctuations taking place to create new patterns, according to Pribram, and the resulting dynamic potential can then organize new foci of activity oriented to the precipitation of strategic planning and exercise of free will.
In a 1998 interview, Pribram addressed the understanding of cognitive potential, stating that, "(I)f you get into your potential mode, then new things can happen. But usually free will is conceived in terms of how many constraints are operating, and we have in statistics a notion of degrees of freedom. I think our will essentially is constrained, more or less. We have so many degrees of freedom, and the more degrees of freedom we have, the more we feel free, and we have freedom of choice."
These hypothesized "quantum minds" are still debated among scientists and philosophers, and there are actually a number of different theories—not just one—that have been suggested. Notable proponents of various quantum mind theories are philosopher David Chalmers and mathematical physicist Roger Penrose. Cosmologist Max Tegmark is a notable opponent of the various quantum mind theories. Tegmark wrote the well-known paper, "Problem with Quantum Mind Theory," which demonstrates certain problems with Chalmers' and Penrose's ideas on the subject.
A robust quantum theory of consciousness has been developed by Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory physicist Henry Stapp who has both replied to Tegmark and to thermodynamic challenges to the theory. Jeffrey M. Schwartz has done research on obsessive compulsive disorder, applying the theory to brain neuroplasticity through focused, persistent attention. Holonomic brain theory might also be considered in relation to the holon (philosophy) and to autopoiesis.
Read more about this topic: Holonomic Brain Theory
Famous quotes containing the words quantum, dynamics and/or free:
“The receipt to make a speaker, and an applauded one too, is short and easy.—Take of common sense quantum sufficit, add a little application to the rules and orders of the House, throw obvious thoughts in a new light, and make up the whole with a large quantity of purity, correctness, and elegancy of style.”
—Philip Dormer Stanhope, 4th Earl Chesterfield (1694–1773)
“Anytime we react to behavior in our children that we dislike in ourselves, we need to proceed with extreme caution. The dynamics of everyday family life also have a way of repeating themselves.”
—Cathy Rindner Tempelsman (20th century)
“Only free men can negotiate. Prisoners cannot enter into contracts.”
—Nelson Mandela (b. 1918)