Matter, mind and consciousness: from information to meaning

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Quantum Physics
• Theoretical Biology

Background:

• The brain's complex functions, including neuronal correlations and memory, are not fully understood by classical models.
• Quantum phenomena may play a role in large-scale brain activity and information processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a theoretical framework for brain function based on a dissipative quantum model.
• To explain the formation of long-range neuronal correlations and memory states.
• To explore the role of environmental interaction in brain activity and consciousness.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing quantum field theory mechanisms to describe neuronal correlations in systems with many degrees of freedom.
• Modeling memory states through condensation into the lowest energy state of correlated quanta.
• Applying the formalism of dissipative systems to describe brain/mind activity.

Main Results:

• Long-range neuronal correlations are explained via quantum field theory.
• Memory states are modeled as condensed quanta in the lowest energy state.
• Brain flexibility is linked to chaotic dynamics through memory states.
• Consciousness is proposed to emerge from continuous brain-environment interaction.

Conclusions:

• The dissipative quantum model offers a novel perspective on brain function, integrating quantum mechanics and thermodynamics.
• The model accounts for brain flexibility, memory formation, and the emergence of consciousness.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the brain's extraordinary properties using this framework.