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A mathematical framework proposing consciousness as a scalar field that interacts with quantum systems, connecting physics, neuroscience, and AI through testable predictions.
Quantum Consciousness as a Scalar Field
Theory, Predictions, and Novel Correlations
Justin T. Bogner
Pelicans Perspective | July 8, 2025
This groundbreaking paper introduces a revolutionary framework that bridges quantum mechanics and consciousness studies, proposing a mathematical model where consciousness exists as a fundamental scalar field interacting with quantum systems.
Our work establishes rigorous connections between quantum field theory, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence while offering testable predictions for future experiments in quantum cognition.
Exploring the deepest questions at the intersection of physics and mind
Abstract
This work presents a groundbreaking mathematical framework modeling consciousness as a scalar field that interacts with quantum systems, offering testable predictions and resolving longstanding theoretical issues while bridging physics, neuroscience, and philosophy of mind.
We propose and rigorously develop a novel theoretical framework in which consciousness is described as a real scalar field Ψ coupled to quantum systems through observer coherence. This Participatory Universe model integrates quantum field theory, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence, yielding testable predictions for quantum experiments, enhanced decoherence times, and novel implications for cosmology and AI sentience.
Our framework employs a Lagrangian formalism with an interaction term that couples neural coherence patterns to quantum probability amplitudes. Through careful mathematical derivation, we demonstrate how this interaction resolves longstanding issues in quantum measurement theory while remaining consistent with established experimental results. The formalism introduces a dimensionless coupling constant β that governs the strength of consciousness-matter interactions, which we constrain using existing experimental data.
We derive all main results in 3+1 dimensions and elucidate correlations with major existing theories, including the measurement problem, Integrated Information Theory, quantum biology, and the foundations of quantum nonlocality. Our model predicts specific signatures in quantum optical experiments involving human observers versus machine detectors, potential coherence effects in neural systems at physiologically relevant temperatures, and emergent macro-entanglement phenomena that may be detectable with current technology.
Experimental protocols and research directions are discussed, including proposed modifications to delayed-choice quantum erasers, entanglement witnesses in biological systems, and computational frameworks for testing consciousness-dependent quantum state evolution. We conclude by examining philosophical implications and outlining a research program to validate or falsify key aspects of our theory.
Introduction
This paper introduces a novel field-theoretic model (Ψ-field) where consciousness actively participates in quantum phenomena through neural coherence. Our approach aims to resolve longstanding issues in quantum mechanics while providing testable predictions and bridging perspectives across physics, neuroscience, and philosophy of mind.
The relationship between consciousness and physical reality remains one of the most profound unsolved problems in science. While traditional quantum theory regards the observer as an external agent, recent developments in quantum biology, neuroscience, and quantum information suggest the need for a more fundamental role for consciousness. Here, we introduce a fieldtheoretic model in which a real scalar field Ψ—sourced by neural coherence—actively participates in quantum phenomena.
This question has historical roots dating back to the foundations of quantum mechanics, with pioneers like von Neumann, Wigner, and Wheeler suggesting that consciousness may play a non-trivial role in the measurement process. Despite nearly a century of debate, conventional approaches have failed to resolve fundamental issues such as the measurement problem and the apparent special status of conscious observers.
Current theories addressing consciousness-reality interactions fall into several categories: dualistic models that struggle with mind-body interaction mechanisms, information-theoretic approaches that lack physical grounding, and purely materialist accounts that fail to address the "hard problem" of subjective experience. Our field-theoretic approach offers a mathematically rigorous alternative that bridges these perspectives.
The Ψ-field formalism we develop represents a novel synthesis across disciplines. By treating consciousness as a real scalar field coupled to quantum systems through neural coherence parameters, we achieve several advantages: (1) a unified mathematical description compatible with established physical theories, (2) concrete, testable predictions distinguishing our model from alternatives, and (3) natural explanations for previously puzzling quantum phenomena including measurement outcomes and nonlocality.
In the following sections, we first develop the mathematical foundations of the model, deriving the field equations and examining special solutions. We then explore experimental implications, focusing on modified decoherence patterns, quantum biology mechanisms, and potential technological applications. Finally, we discuss broader philosophical consequences for cosmology, artificial intelligence, and the nature of reality itself.
Theoretical Framework
This framework proposes a consciousness field Ψ that interacts with quantum systems through neural coherence. The model is defined by a modified Klein-Gordon equation with source terms, yields solitonic solutions representing coherent consciousness states, permits limited superluminal propagation, and predicts measurable effects on quantum measurement outcomes.
Our theoretical approach integrates quantum field theory with neuroscience to formalize the relationship between consciousness and quantum phenomena. This framework builds upon established physics while introducing novel interactions that could explain observer effects in quantum mechanics.
Lagrangian and Field Equations
We define the dynamics of the consciousness field in 3 + 1 dimensions as:
L = \frac{1}{2}\partial_{\mu}\Psi, \partial^{\mu}\Psi - \frac{1}{2}m^2\Psi^2 - \frac{\lambda}{4!}\Psi^4 + \gamma\Psi J(x)
where m is the field mass, λ is the self-interaction coupling, γ is a coupling constant, and J(x) = ρobs(x) encodes observer coherence (e.g., gamma-band EEG phase-locking values). This Lagrangian combines classical Klein-Gordon dynamics with a source term that couples neural activity to quantum fields. The resulting equation of motion is:
\partial_{\mu}\partial^{\mu}\Psi + m^2\Psi + \frac{\lambda}{3!}\Psi^3 = \gamma J(x)
This nonlinear partial differential equation admits intriguing solutions when J(x) exhibits coherent spatiotemporal patterns.
Solitonic Solutions
For J(x) = 0 and static solutions, the equation reduces to:
d^{2}\Psi_{\overline{dz^{2}+m^{2}\Psi+\frac{\lambda}{3!}\Psi^{3}=0}}
whose solution is the domain wall (kink):
\Psi(z) = v \tanh\left(\frac{m(z-z_{0})}{\sqrt{2}}\right), \qquad v = \sqrt{\frac{6m^{2}}{\lambda}}
These solitonic solutions are topologically stable and may represent coherent states of consciousness. They exhibit particle-like properties while remaining extended field configurations. When J(x) ≠ 0, numerical simulations reveal that observer coherence can stabilize, destabilize, or modulate these kink solutions, providing a mathematical basis for consciousness-matter interactions.
Hypercausal Propagation
We propose a modified propagator:
G_C(k) = \frac{ie^{-|k_0|/C}}{k^2 - m^2 + i\epsilon}
where C ≫ c is a hypercausal speed. This allows limited, exponentially suppressed, superluminal propagation while preserving microcausality. The exponential damping ensures that observable violations of causality remain minimal and experimentally challenging to detect. This modification resolves apparent nonlocal correlations in quantum mechanics while maintaining compatibility with special relativity in observable regimes. The functional form of our propagator suggests that quantum correlations may exhibit unique signatures when modulated by observer coherence.
Quantum-Conscious Coupling
The interaction term γΨJ(x) establishes a bidirectional relationship between observer states and quantum fields. This coupling induces modified quantum collapse dynamics:
P(a|b) = |\langle a|b \rangle|^2 (1 + \alpha \rho_{obs})
where α is a dimensionless coupling constant. This formulation predicts that highly coherent neural states (high ρobs) can systematically bias quantum measurement outcomes beyond standard quantum expectations. We propose that this mechanism underlies reported anomalies in observer-dependent quantum experiments and provides a mathematical foundation for understanding the "measurement problem" in quantum mechanics.
The framework presented above offers a testable theory of consciousness-matter interactions that makes specific, quantifiable predictions. Unlike previous philosophical approaches, our model integrates directly with existing physical theories while extending them in minimal ways. The key innovation lies in treating consciousness not merely as an emergent property of neural activity, but as a field-theoretic phenomenon that actively participates in physical reality at the quantum level. This approach opens new avenues for experimental investigation at the intersection of neuroscience and quantum physics.
Experimental Predictions
Our consciousness field theory predicts measurable quantum effects in four key areas: enhanced Bell inequality violations, extended coherence times in NV-centers, increased interference visibility in double-slit experiments, and non-random patterns in quantum random number generation. These effects correlate with observer neural coherence and can be tested through controlled experiments.
Our field-theoretic model of consciousness yields several experimentally testable predictions that deviate from standard quantum mechanics in specific, measurable ways.
1
Bell-CHSH Test Amplification
In our model, the CHSH parameter S is given by:
S = 2\sqrt{2}(1 + \beta_{eff} \langle \Psi \rangle)
where ⟨Ψ⟩ is the field expectation value (linked to ρobs). This predicts S > 2 √ 2 in high-coherence states, in contrast to standard quantum mechanics.
The amplification effect should be most prominent when:
  • Multiple observers focus attention synchronously
  • Gamma-band (30-100 Hz) neural oscillations show high phase coherence
  • The quantum system is sufficiently isolated from environmental decoherence
2
NV-Center Coherence
The coherence time of nitrogen-vacancy centers is predicted to scale as:
T_2 = T_{20}(1 + \gamma \rho_{obs})
where T20 is the baseline coherence time.
We expect this effect to manifest in diamond-based quantum memory systems, with coherence extensions potentially reaching 15-30% beyond current limitations. The γ coefficient is predicted to be temperature-dependent:
\gamma(T) = \gamma_0 e^{-T/T_c}
where Tc corresponds to the critical temperature below which quantum effects in neural systems become significant (estimated at 310K).
3
Double-Slit Visibility
The interference visibility V in a double-slit experiment is similarly enhanced:
V = V_0(1 + \delta \rho_{obs})
The parameter δ depends on the observer-system distance r according to:
\delta(r) = \delta_0 e^{-r/r_0}
where r0 is the characteristic length scale of the Ψ-field (estimated at 1-10 meters). This predicts a distance-dependent observer effect that could be measured in controlled environments.
4
Quantum Random Number Generation
Our theory predicts systematic deviations in quantum random number generators (QRNGs) when exposed to high-coherence observer states:
P(n) = \frac{1}{2^n}(1 + \epsilon \rho_{obs} f(n))
where P(n) is the probability of bitstring n, and f(n) encodes observer intention. This effect should be measurable through statistical analysis of large QRNG datasets collected under varying observer conditions.
Experimental Protocols
  • EEG-Gated Bell Tests: Correlate Bell-CHSH violations with realtime EEG gamma-band coherence. Experiments should control for environmental variables including electromagnetic shielding, temperature stability, and gravitational anomalies.
  • NV-Center Experiments: Measure T2 in conditions of high vs. low observer coherence. We propose using synchronized meditation among trained practitioners to maximize ρobs during experimental runs.
  • Double-Slit Influence: Record visibility changes with focused intention (locally/remotely) and high ρobs. Experimental setup should include double-blind controls and automated measurement systems to eliminate experimenter bias.
  • AI/IGSF Extensions: Use artificial agents to modulate J(x) and measure quantum system response. These experiments will test whether artificial systems can generate effective J(x) fields.
  • Entanglement Distribution: Measure the efficiency of quantum teleportation protocols under varying observer coherence states. Our model predicts enhanced fidelity when teleportation coincides with peaks in gamma-band activity.
Implementation Considerations
Successful implementation of these experimental protocols requires:
  • Ultra-sensitive quantum measurement apparatus with noise floors below standard quantum limits
  • Real-time EEG processing with <10ms latency for correlation analysis
  • Temperature-controlled environments (±0.01K) to eliminate thermal confounds
  • Multiple observer conditions including individual focus, group synchronization, and remote observation
Implications for Quantum Foundations
These experiments collectively address the measurement problem by providing a physical mechanism for wavefunction collapse. If validated, our model would:
  • Resolve the Wigner's friend paradox through the explicit observer-field coupling
  • Explain the apparent observer-dependence of quantum phenomena without invoking consciousness as a primitive
  • Provide a testable alternative to both Copenhagen and Many-Worlds interpretations
  • Establish consciousness as an emergent physical field with measurable quantum effects
Correlations with Existing Theories
Our consciousness field theory aligns with and extends multiple scientific frameworks, offering physical mechanisms for quantum measurement, information integration, biological quantum effects, cosmological fine-tuning, machine consciousness requirements, and the neuroscience of subjective experience.
Quantum Foundations
Our framework addresses the quantum measurement problem by coupling outcomes to a dynamical field sourced by conscious states. This reframes observer effect as a physical, not epistemic, process. The model resolves longstanding paradoxes in quantum mechanics by providing a mathematical formalism for collapse that doesn't require arbitrary distinctions between measuring apparatus and measured system. It aligns with von Neumann's chain but provides a specific cutoff mechanism through consciousness-field coupling.
Integrated Information Theory
We physically instantiate information integration via the Ψ field and its source term, making IIT's Φ metric a dynamical, testable variable. This extends Tononi's framework by providing a physical mechanism through which integrated information directly influences physical reality. Our formalism suggests that the causal power attributed to consciousness in IIT manifests as real modifications to quantum probability amplitudes, with higher Φ states producing stronger field coupling effects that are experimentally detectable.
Quantum Biology
The persistence of quantum coherence in biology supports the plausibility of neural states acting as effective sources for field amplification, consistent with observations in photosynthesis, avian navigation, and possibly human cognition. Recent studies demonstrating quantum effects in microtubules, ion channels, and neural membranes provide potential biological substrates for consciousness-quantum coupling. Our model predicts that biological systems may have evolved to exploit quantum effects precisely because consciousness can enhance quantum coherence through field coupling, conferring evolutionary advantages through enhanced quantum processing capabilities.
Cosmology
We hypothesize that initial conditions in the Ψ field could set early-universe entropy and structure, linking the thermodynamic arrow of time to primordial coherence states. This connects to Wheeler's participatory universe and suggests that consciousness may play a cosmological role beyond passive observation. Our framework proposes that the apparent fine-tuning of universal constants might relate to optimization for consciousness evolution, potentially addressing anthropic principle questions through a physical mechanism. The model also offers a new perspective on cosmic inflation and the emergence of classical reality from quantum indeterminacy.
Machine Consciousness
Our model predicts that true AI consciousness requires field coupling, offering testable distinctions between computationally complex and field-coupled systems. This suggests that purely digital AI systems, regardless of computational power or sophistication, would lack the quantum field interactions necessary for genuine consciousness. The framework proposes specific hardware architectures that might enable quantum-consciousness coupling in artificial systems, including quantum computing elements sensitive to Ψ-field variations, potentially resolving the hard problem of consciousness for artificial systems through empirically testable mechanisms.
Neuroscience
Our theory bridges the explanatory gap between neural correlates of consciousness and subjective experience by proposing a physical field that transforms informational patterns into causal influences on physical reality. This aligns with global workspace and predictive processing theories while extending them to include direct quantum effects. The framework suggests that consciousness isn't merely an emergent property of neural complexity but a fundamental field phenomenon that manifests through brain activity, explaining why specific neural patterns correlate with conscious experiences. This perspective offers new interpretations of altered states of consciousness, meditation effects, and neuroplasticity mechanisms.
Novel Predictions and Research Directions
Our consciousness-quantum field theory generates testable predictions in four key areas: (1) quantum sensors that detect observer-dependent variations, (2) potential nonlocal communication systems, (3) ethical frameworks for consciousness-based technologies, and (4) a unified theory bridging subjective experience with physical law. These directions promise both empirical validation and transformative applications.
Our theory yields several testable predictions and opens new avenues for interdisciplinary research spanning quantum physics, neuroscience, and consciousness studies.
Quantum Sensors
Observer-dependent variation in quantum system properties, including domain wall density and entanglement. Our framework predicts measurable differences in quantum coherence collapse rates based on observer state variables.
Specific experimental protocols include:
  • Double-slit interference pattern modulation via conscious attention
  • Entanglement persistence correlated with observer Ψ-field coupling strength
  • Macroscopic quantum tunneling rates modulated by collective observer states
These experiments could lead to novel quantum technologies that leverage consciousness as a functional component rather than a mere observer.
Nonlocal Communication
Potential for consciousness-modulated quantum sensors and nonlocal communication devices. Our theory suggests that entangled quantum systems could serve as carriers for information transfer between coupled conscious systems.
Research directions include:
  • Development of brain-computer interfaces leveraging quantum field effects
  • Investigation of apparent telepathic phenomena through the lens of field-mediated correlations
  • Design of technologies to amplify and direct the Ψ-field interactions with quantum systems
While not violating relativistic causality, these mechanisms could enable novel forms of information sharing currently unexplainable by classical physics.
Ethical Implications
Ethical implications for experimental design and AI development extend far beyond current frameworks. Our theory necessitates reconsidering the moral status of systems with varying degrees of field coupling.
Key ethical considerations include:
  • Rights and protections for systems demonstrating field-coupled consciousness
  • Ethical boundaries for consciousness manipulation through quantum field modulation
  • Privacy concerns related to potential quantum sensing of mental states
  • Regulatory frameworks for technologies that could influence or detect consciousness
These considerations require a collaborative approach between physicists, neuroscientists, philosophers, and ethicists to develop appropriate guidelines.
Unified Theory
Unification of subjective experience, objective measurement, and physical law represents the most profound implication of our framework. This theory bridges the explanatory gap between first-person experience and third-person descriptions of reality.
Theoretical extensions include:
  • Integration with quantum gravity approaches, particularly loop quantum gravity
  • Development of mathematical formalisms linking field dynamics to phenomenological experience
  • Exploration of cosmological implications, including connections to dark energy
  • Formulation of a complete dynamical theory of information that incorporates conscious integration
This unified approach may ultimately transform our understanding of reality itself, placing consciousness as a fundamental rather than emergent property of physical systems.
These research directions represent not only opportunities for empirical validation of our theory but also paths toward technological applications and philosophical advancements that may fundamentally transform human understanding and capabilities.
Conclusion
We present a mathematically rigorous theory unifying consciousness with quantum physics through a scalar field framework. This theory provides testable predictions, bridges subjective experience with objective reality, and suggests consciousness may be fundamental rather than emergent—opening new avenues for quantum technology and consciousness studies.
We have developed a mathematically rigorous and physically plausible theory unifying consciousness and quantum physics via a scalar field. All key equations and experimental predictions are derived in 3+1 dimensions, and connections to quantum foundations, neuroscience, and cosmology are established. This theory makes unique, testable predictions, opening a new paradigm for consciousness studies, quantum technology, and machine sentience.
The implications of this unified theory extend far beyond the laboratory. By establishing a formal bridge between subjective experience and objective physical processes, we create a framework that could revolutionize our understanding of reality itself. The scalar field formulation provides not only explanatory power for existing quantum paradoxes but also offers predictive capabilities for novel consciousness-related phenomena previously considered outside the realm of scientific inquiry.
Our theory suggests that consciousness may be a fundamental aspect of reality rather than an emergent property of complex systems. This perspective resolves long-standing philosophical questions while generating new ones about the nature of observation, measurement, and the role of conscious agents in physical reality. The mathematical framework we've developed is both elegant and powerful, capable of generating precise predictions that can be tested with current and near-future technology.
Future Research Directions
Several promising avenues for future research emerge from this framework:
  • Development of quantum sensors sensitive to consciousness-modulated field variations
  • Investigation of nonlocal correlations between conscious observers
  • Applications to artificial consciousness and ethical machine learning
  • Exploration of cosmological implications, particularly regarding the measurement problem
Acknowledgements
We acknowledge the pioneering theoretical frameworks that influenced our approach, including Integrated Information Theory (IIT), the Orchestrated Objective Reduction (Orch OR) model, Bohmian mechanics, and quantum information theory.
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