Quantum Physics: The Advanced Class

(via Abtruse Goose )

As far as I know, it's not consciousness, but just the fact that observation necessitates interaction with the observed quantum system, is what forces the quantum state to change. You have to, say, bump a photon off something to see it and when you do, you've changed what you observed.

Also, different brain structure should not lead to different mathematics. 1+1=2 regardless of brain structure.

My 2 kopeks)

Haha, hmmmmmmm... linking the problem of observation impacting quantum level detection to creating quantum action (and therefore reality itself) sounds nice, but Im not sure its the same thing (valid). If the pesky student instead means math is an invented system of interpretation then I'd disagree and argue its instead an observation from outside the observed system organising forces - and not a creation of humankind. BUT who can say the extent of connections, especially if entertaining the concept of the Force, but I dont think you could argue for observation creating physical reality successfully! It's great to think our brains can create reality (eg lucid dreams) but if each person's brain were so powerful to create physical reality then I think it would be more dynamic and less constrained, especially considering how many of these human brains exist and that we do interact in a fairly predictable reality.

I couldn't help but think, but isn't this analogous to the time-honored question:

If a tree falls in the forest but nobody is present, does it still make a sound?

:evil:

Well, if sound is the air vibrating, then yes. And if you ask "but how do you know, if you are not observing it", I'd ask back "and how do you know there is a tree at all?".