From: mk_thisisit
Introduction
The nature of reality, particularly whether the world is solely material or also transcendental, is considered an important question for physics, especially when considering concepts like free will and consciousness [00:27:58].
Free Will
Free will is defined as the capacity to be independent and creative, acting without external commands or a predetermined scenario [00:34:15]. Humans are believed to possess free will, implying responsibility for one’s actions [00:35:11]. In contrast, robots do not possess free will because they are mechanical and deterministic, constantly performing the same tasks [00:34:32].
Free Will and Quantum Mechanics
Quantum mechanics is proposed as a crucial element in the existence of free will [00:34:09]. A “digital brain,” which operates deterministically, would lack free will, akin to a robot [00:35:22]. Quantum mechanics introduces uncertainty, which is seen as enabling creativity, thought, and consciousness [00:35:28].
Consciousness
The question of whether human consciousness exists at the quantum level is a significant area of inquiry [00:33:30]. While the exact structure of the brain remains a great mystery, some suggest that ordinary mechanics, similar to transistors and circuits, could explain its function [00:33:49]. However, it is also believed that quantum mechanics plays a role [00:34:03].
Consciousness and Quantum Mechanics
Consciousness may be a by-product of quantum mechanics [00:35:35]. The argument for its quantum basis often relates to the “collapse of the wave function,” a physical process that is not yet fully understood [00:36:05]. The idea that free will stems from this aspect of quantum mechanics is a subject of ongoing discussion [00:36:13]. The microtubule theory, developed by Stuart Hameroff, proposes that a quantum element, not fully determined by classical mechanics, is necessary for consciousness [00:35:43].
Artificial Intelligence and Consciousness
If human consciousness involves more than just calculations, then creating artificial intelligence with true consciousness may not be possible using conventional computing methods [00:34:47]. While there is no universally accepted definition of consciousness, it is believed that in the future, it might be possible to create a machine capable of self-awareness, understanding its environment, recognizing others, and interacting with them [00:37:09]. However, whether this qualifies as “consciousness” remains an open question [00:36:51].