Abstract
Suppose a Wavefunction Collapsed in the Forest...
Here we explore a modern approach to quantum measurement theory which obviates the need for a conscious observer. Unlike traditional state vector reduction, the type of environment-induced superselection which I have elsewhere dubbed 'interactive decoherence' occurs in any quantum system with a high degree of interaction with its environment, regardless of whether that environment includes a conscious observer. Under the process of interactive decoherence, macroscopic objects whose behaviour correlates very closely with classical physics may emerge automatically from the quantum substrate. This approach to quantum measurement excuses the cognitive scientist from concern about how conscious structures precipitate state vector reduction, and it greatly reduces the plausibility of theories of mind which either appeal to minds to reduce wavefunctions of material structures such as brains or which suggest such structures might achieve special computational abilities by existing temporarily in states of linear superposition.
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