Roger Penrose on Quantum Mechanics and Consciousness
Roger Penrose Thinks Quantum Mechanics is Dead Wrong đź”—
00:00 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics Confusion
Roger Penrose expresses his dissatisfaction with the collapse of wave functions in quantum mechanics, highlighting the confusion surrounding the Schrödinger equation. He questions the concept of measurement and observation, suggesting that these ideas complicate understanding quantum systems.
05:00 Consciousness and Wave Function Collapse
Penrose critiques the notion that consciousness collapses the wave function, arguing instead that physics, not consciousness, is responsible for this collapse. He believes both Einstein and Schrödinger viewed quantum theory as fundamentally incorrect and requires significant modifications.
10:00 The Need for Modification in Theories
The discussion shifts to the need for changes in quantum mechanics and general relativity. Penrose emphasizes that quantum mechanics needs more significant alterations than general relativity, dismissing the idea of merely quantizing gravity as insufficient.
15:00 Absurdity of Consciousness Affecting Physics
Using a hypothetical scenario about a lifeless planet, Penrose illustrates the absurdity of believing that a conscious observer impacts physical phenomena. He argues that it is the collapse of the wave function that leads to consciousness, rather than the other way around.
20:00 Microtubules and Consciousness
The conversation touches on microtubules as a potential mechanism for consciousness. Although Penrose finds the concept intriguing, he remains open to other explanations, expressing interest in recent findings related to quantum effects in microtubules.
What is Roger Penrose's view on quantum mechanics?
Penrose believes that quantum mechanics is fundamentally wrong and requires significant amendments, rather than being simply incomplete.
How does Penrose view the relationship between consciousness and the wave function?
He argues that consciousness does not collapse the wave function; instead, he suggests that the collapse of the wave function produces consciousness.
What is the significance of microtubules in Penrose's theory?
Penrose considers microtubules a good candidate for the mechanism of consciousness but is open to the possibility that other structures could play a role.