Johnjoe McFadden: Is Consciousness An Electromagnetic Information Field? The CEMI Field Theory
Jun 1, 2024
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Professor Johnjoe McFadden discusses his theory of consciousness as an electromagnetic information field. Topics include synchronization of neuronal activity, CEMI Field Theory, electromagnetic correlates of consciousness, and the impact of EM fields on death. The conversation dives into the role of electromagnetic fields in memory recall, AI development, brain evolution, and the future of artificial intelligence.
Consciousness is proposed to be an electromagnetic field, distinct from unconscious brain processes.
Electromagnetic fields in the brain play a role in shaping conscious experiences and influencing neuron firing patterns.
Balancing scientific rigor and speculative theories in understanding consciousness is crucial for empirical evidence-based progress.
Semi-Field Theory suggests that only synchronously firing neurons contribute to conscious experiences, indicating a link between neural activity and electromagnetic fields.
Deep dives
Understanding the Puzzle of Consciousness
The podcast delves into the enigmatic nature of consciousness and its fundamental importance. By exploring the heart problem and the binding problem, it questions the distinction between conscious and unconscious brain processes. The discussion centers on the seat of consciousness and its mysterious nature, which lies beyond the realm of current scientific understanding. The podcast highlights the significance of consciousness in defining life and pondering its purpose if devoid of awareness.
Exploring Quantum Evolution and Consciousness Theories
The episode covers the evolution of quantum biology and its potential role in life processes. It reflects on the intersection of quantum mechanics and consciousness theories, including the proposition by Penrose and Hammerhoff linking consciousness to quantum mechanics. The discussion dissects the challenges of applying quantum principles to complex brain structures like microtubules and the binding problem in consciousness studies. It also touches on the exploration of electromagnetic fields in the brain and their influence on neuron firing, offering new insights into consciousness theories.
Navigating the Scientific and Philosophical Boundaries of Consciousness Theories
The conversation delves into the balance between scientific rigor and speculative theories in understanding consciousness. It discusses the implications of electromagnetic fields in the brain, addressing concerns about external influences on brain EM fields. The podcast differentiates between scientific exploration and non-scientific speculation, emphasizing the need for empirical evidence in formulating theories. It also contemplates the conservation of information and the potential interaction of brain EM fields with external electromagnetic influences.
Challenges of Defining Consciousness and the Role of EM Fields
The discussion explores the complexities of defining consciousness and the potential role of electromagnetic fields in conscious experiences. It probes into the boundaries of scientific inquiry and the need for empirical evidence to support theories of consciousness. The episode touches on the intricate relationship between brain EM fields and external influences, highlighting the need for a balance between scientific inquiry and speculative ideas in unraveling the mysteries of consciousness.
Scientific Inquiry and Pragmatic Approaches to Consciousness Theories
The podcast emphasizes the significance of simplicity in scientific explanations of complex phenomena like consciousness. It underscores the pragmatic approach of Occam's Razor in choosing the simplest solution to intricate problems. The discussion navigates the fine line between taking leaps of faith and maintaining agnosticism in unexplored scientific territories, highlighting the essence of empirical evidence and critical thinking in advancing our understanding of consciousness theories.
The Semi-Field Theory and Consciousness
The Semi-Field Theory proposes that consciousness is linked to the brain's electromagnetic field, with synchronously firing neurons transmitting information into this field. Only the synchronized neural activity is considered conscious, while asynchronous firing remains non-conscious. This theory suggests a clear distinction between conscious and non-conscious mental processes, highlighting the role of electromagnetic fields in shaping conscious experiences. Research, such as studies on the brain neurons in monkeys conducted by MIT, supports the idea that memories may be encoded in electromagnetic fields rather than specific neurons, shedding light on the complex nature of consciousness.
Evolution of Consciousness and Free Will
The discussion delves into the evolutionary aspects of consciousness, suggesting that higher mammals and possibly even primates exhibit conscious behaviors. The concept of free will is linked to conscious decision-making as driven by the brain's electromagnetic field, distinguishing between actions guided by the conscious mind and those governed by the non-conscious brain. The notion of free will is simplified within the context of the Semi-Field Theory, emphasizing that conscious actions stem from the conscious mind's influence, providing a pragmatic explanation for the complexities of decision-making and conscious experiences.
Johnjoe McFadden is Professor of Molecular Genetics at the University of Surrey, United Kingdom. He obtained his BSc in Biochemistry at the University of London, and his PhD at Imperial College London. He is an accomplished scientist and author. He has written several books, including "Quantum Evolution: Life in the Multiverse" (2000), "Life on the Edge: The Coming of Age of Quantum Biology" (2014), and his latest book "Life Is Simple: How Occam's Razor Set Science Free and Shapes the Universe" (2021). His research interests include systems biology, mycobacterial genetics, pathogenicity of tuberculosis, neisserial genetics, pathogenicity of meningococcal meningitis. However, along with Prof Jim Al-Khalili, he has become best-known for his contributions to the field of Quantum Biology. Prof McFadden also endorses a theory of consciousness wherein consciousness is an electromagnetic information field (known as CEMI Field Theory).
TIMESTAMPS:
(0:00) - Introduction
(0:49) - What is Consciousness? (Quantum Biology)
(6:37) - Consciousness as a an Electromagnetic Information Field
(15:25) - Synchronization of neuronal activity
(Constructive interference & awareness)
(18:25) - What is CEMI Field Theory?
(21:26) - Not all electromagnetic field theories of consciousness are "mystical" (physicalism vs materialism)
(27:10) - NCCs vs Electromagnetic correlates of consciousness
(31:30) - Michael Levin's work
(35:49) - Consciousness EM Fields & Death
(Conservation of Information)
(40:25) - When do metaphysical claims break away from science? (Telepathy etc.)
(47:05) - Synchronicity (conscious) vs asynchronicity (unconscious)
(53:50) - Conscious AI
(59:44) - When did our brain's EM Fields evolve "consciousness" and do other animals have it too?
(1:04:50) - What does CEMI Field Theory say about Free Will?
(1:08:23) - At what "age" (from embryo to adulthood) do our EM Fields synchronize?
(1:11:50) - How can CEMI Field Theory make progress?
(1:16:20) - Final thoughts
1:18:09 - Conclusion
EPISODE LINKS:
- Johnjoe's Website: https://johnjoemcfadden.co.uk
- Work Website: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/people/johnjoe-mcfadden
- Johnjoe's Publications: https://tinyurl.com/2s48mdnd
- Johnjoe's Books: https://tinyurl.com/49kp3snf
CONNECT:
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this channel is for educational purposes only. The content is shared in the spirit of open discourse and does not constitute, nor does it substitute, professional or medical advice. We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of listening/watching any of our contents. You acknowledge that you use the information provided at your own risk. Listeners/viewers are advised to conduct their own research and consult with their own experts in the respective fields.
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