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Large Scale Energy Efficient Sensor Network Routing Using a Quantum Processor Unit
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Published on: September 8, 2023

Is the brain a quantum computer?

Abninder Litt1, Chris Eliasmith, Frederick W Kroon

  • 1School of Computer Science, University of WaterlooDepartment of Philosophy, University of WaterlooDepartment of Systems Design Engineering, University of WaterlooDepartment of Physics, University of WaterlooDepartment of Psychology, University of Waterloo.

Cognitive Science
|June 28, 2011
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Quantum computation is unlikely to explain brain function or thought processes. Research indicates quantum effects lack necessary temporal properties for neural processing and face significant physical hurdles in biological systems.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Quantum Physics
  • Philosophy of Mind

Background:

  • Ongoing theoretical speculations suggest quantum mechanical processes may explain brain function.
  • The relationship between quantum mechanics and consciousness remains a topic of debate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the relevance of quantum computation in explaining brain-based thought.
  • To address the hypothesis that quantum effects are essential for cognitive functions like consciousness.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of the temporal properties of quantum effects in relation to neural information processing.
  • Assessment of the physical feasibility of organic quantum computation.
  • Review of psychological evidence for quantum explanations of cognition.

Main Results:

  • Quantum effects lack the required temporal dynamics for neural processing.
  • Significant physical obstacles exist for implementing quantum computation in biological systems.
  • No current psychological evidence supports quantum theory for explaining consciousness or mathematical thought.

Conclusions:

  • Quantum computation is not a necessary mechanism for understanding brain function.
  • The current understanding of brain function and thought does not necessitate quantum mechanical explanations.