Philosophy For Our Times Consciousness is quantum mechanical | Stuart Hameroff
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Mar 18, 2025 Stuart Hameroff, an anesthesiologist and pioneering consciousness researcher, shares his groundbreaking theories on consciousness and quantum mechanics. He explores how microtubules in neurons could play a key role, with implications that challenge traditional views. The discussion also touches on the influence of psychedelics on consciousness and its potential existence beyond physical life. Hameroff delves into profound questions about individuality, entanglement, and the transformative nature of consciousness, making a case for a more open-minded exploration of life and death.
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Microtubules and Consciousness
- Stuart Hameroff argues that conventional theories of consciousness, based on simple neuron interactions, are inadequate.
- He proposes that microtubules within neurons process information at multiple frequencies, enabling complex computation beyond current models.
Non-Computable Consciousness
- Hameroff emphasizes that consciousness is non-computable, drawing on Roger Penrose's work.
- Penrose's 'objective reduction' theory suggests consciousness arises from quantum processes linked to spacetime geometry.
Meeting Penrose
- Hameroff recounts meeting Roger Penrose and introducing the concept of microtubules as the biological structures supporting Penrose's theory.
- This collaboration marked the beginning of their joint theory of consciousness.
