#the superposition of human affection

[greenfiend]

The BIG Picture

What I think the writers are majorly drawing inspiration from when it comes to the grand message of the story.

THIS is likely why they emphasize that the story is science fiction and not fantasy.

John Wheeler and The Participatory Universe

John Archibald Wheeler may not be as well known as Einstein, but he is an incredibly important theoretical physicist who made many fascinating discoveries and advancements within the field. I think it's extremely likely that Mike is named after him.

From his work in quantum physics, he realized that observation affects the universe; as subatomic particles change states whether or not they are being observed. So basically, we participate in the universe as observers.

What does this mean exactly?

I'll start off with giving the classic example of Schrödinger's cat. This cat is said to be in a superposition of both dead and alive until it is observed. The observer is a participant, and the mere act of observation shapes reality as we know it. The observer is the human consciousness.

This concept goes into the idea of free will. This theory argues that as humans with consciousness, we are all creators of our own universe. We are able to write our own stories, and choose our own destinies. The way we think and perceive the world is what shapes it.

If we view ourselves as a victim, we become the victim. If we view ourselves as a hero, we become the hero. It's all a self-fulfilling prophecy.

It's our choice what universe we want to live in.

[argumate]

Maybe it's because I've been around too many hype people lately, but the idea that an inanimate thing has genuine intelligence is one that seems about as grounded in reality as anything to do with the souls of humans and animals. It's also something that nobody ever seems eager to change their mind on either.

yeah I dunno about "genuine intelligence", I tried asking ChatGPT to explain quantum mechanics in one paragraph (after skimming a disappointing book on the topic) and it gave me:

Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that describes how particles behave at the smallest scales—like atoms and subatomic particles—where the rules of classical physics break down. Instead of objects having definite positions and speeds, quantum particles exist in a range of possible states simultaneously (called superposition) until they’re measured, at which point they “collapse” into a single outcome. They can also become entangled, meaning the state of one instantly affects the other, no matter how far apart they are. The whole framework is governed by probabilities rather than certainties, which makes quantum mechanics both incredibly accurate and deeply weird.

seems like a decent summary? but obviously that's not an original creation, so I asked it to give me a joke:

not hugely funny but it gets points for being self-deprecating I think; it could do AI jokes about all the other Looney Tunes characters too, referencing their individual characteristics in classic ChatGPT style (it wanted Pepé Le Pew to learn to respect boundaries).

finally it plays along with a somewhat whimsical dialogue:

pretty plausible? it plays along improv style, it gives me reasonable answers, it teaches me something.

I don't know what these systems will be capable of in ten years time but I think they'll either be considered intelligent or we will have radically redefined what intelligence means.

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of the Observer

The philosophy of the observer examines the role and nature of observation in shaping reality, knowledge, and experience. In various philosophical contexts, the observer plays a crucial role in determining how we perceive and understand the world, influencing fields such as metaphysics, epistemology, phenomenology, and even quantum mechanics.

1. Epistemology and the Observer

Knowledge and Perception: In epistemology, the observer is central to questions about how we gain knowledge. The subjective nature of observation raises concerns about the reliability of perception and the distinction between appearance and reality. For example, empiricism emphasizes that knowledge comes from sensory experiences, where the observer plays a passive but critical role in perceiving the external world.

Kantian Philosophy: Immanuel Kant argued that observers do not passively receive information from the world. Instead, the mind actively structures experiences according to innate categories, such as time, space, and causality. For Kant, the observer shapes reality by organizing sensory data into coherent experiences, making human perception partly responsible for how we understand the world.

2. Phenomenology and the Observer

Subjective Experience: Phenomenology, particularly as developed by Edmund Husserl, investigates how things appear to observers in their conscious experience. In this approach, the observer’s point of view and intentionality (the direction of conscious experience) are essential in determining the nature of reality.

Being-in-the-World: Martin Heidegger expanded phenomenology to consider the observer's embeddedness in the world. Rather than detached observers, humans are beings who exist in a dynamic relationship with the world, shaping and being shaped by it. Heidegger’s Dasein refers to the human condition as fundamentally involved in interpreting the world.

3. The Observer in Quantum Mechanics

Observer Effect: In the realm of quantum mechanics, the observer effect refers to the idea that the act of observation can affect the outcome of an experiment. For instance, in the double-slit experiment, the behavior of particles (acting as waves or particles) changes when observed, suggesting that the observer plays an active role in determining physical phenomena.

Copenhagen Interpretation: Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg’s Copenhagen Interpretation of quantum mechanics posits that physical systems exist in a superposition of states until observed. This view raises philosophical questions about whether reality exists independently of observation and challenges classical notions of objective reality.

Philosophical Implications: Quantum theory brings the observer to the forefront, suggesting that observation is not merely a passive reception of reality but an active process that influences and even creates the conditions of reality. This has led to discussions about the nature of consciousness and its relationship to the physical world.

4. Metaphysics and the Observer

Idealism: In metaphysical idealism, particularly as espoused by George Berkeley, the observer's role is central. Berkeley argued that reality consists only of perceptions and that things exist only insofar as they are observed (summed up by the phrase “to be is to be perceived”). For Berkeley, the external world has no independent existence outside of being observed.

Objective vs. Subjective Reality: The metaphysical question of whether reality exists independently of observers or is constructed through perception continues to be a central issue. Realism holds that the world exists independently of observation, while constructivism and idealism emphasize the role of the observer in shaping or even constituting reality.

5. Existentialism and the Observer

Sartre’s View of the Gaze: Jean-Paul Sartre explored the concept of the observer in his analysis of the gaze. He argued that being observed by others brings about a kind of self-awareness, often leading to feelings of alienation or objectification. For Sartre, the awareness of being an object in someone else’s gaze causes existential discomfort, as it limits one's freedom and projects them into a defined role.

Authenticity: Existentialists argue that the awareness of being observed often challenges one's authenticity. The need to act in ways that are socially accepted, based on the observer’s expectations, can conflict with living authentically, which is a key existential concern.

6. Ethics and the Observer

Moral Observers: In ethics, the role of an observer can shape moral judgments and actions. The impartial observer is a common thought experiment used in ethical theory, where one is asked to adopt an unbiased, detached standpoint to determine the morality of an action. This is especially prominent in utilitarianism, where the impartial observer is expected to weigh the consequences of actions for all involved.

The Ethical Role of Observation: In moral psychology, the idea of being observed often influences behavior. The panopticon, as discussed by Michel Foucault, illustrates how the possibility of being observed can encourage conformity and self-regulation in ethical and social contexts.

7. Observer in Eastern Philosophy

Buddhism: In Buddhist philosophy, the observer (or the self) is seen as a transient construct rather than an enduring entity. The concept of no-self (anatta) suggests that the idea of a permanent observer or self is illusory. Observation, in this view, is part of the ongoing process of change and interdependence, with no fixed "observer" apart from the flow of experience.

Non-Duality: In Eastern philosophies like Advaita Vedanta, the observer is not seen as separate from the observed. The subject-object distinction is considered illusory, with the realization that there is no fundamental separation between the observer and the world leading to enlightenment or ultimate knowledge.

8. The Observer in Postmodernism

Relativity of Perspectives: Postmodernism, particularly through thinkers like Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida, challenges the idea of a neutral or objective observer. Instead, they argue that observation is influenced by cultural, social, and linguistic structures, meaning there is no single, privileged point of view.

Power and Observation: Foucault argued that observation is a tool of power, as those who observe hold control over those being observed. He examined how institutions, such as prisons and hospitals, use observation as a means of social regulation and discipline.

9. The Observer in Art and Aesthetics

Aesthetic Experience: The role of the observer is also critical in the philosophy of art and aesthetics. The observer’s interpretation, perspective, and emotional response to a work of art can shape its meaning. The idea that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" reflects the subjective nature of aesthetic judgment.

Phenomenology of Art: In the phenomenology of art, the observer's engagement with the artwork is considered an integral part of the aesthetic experience. The meaning of the artwork is not fixed but emerges through the observer’s interaction with it.

The philosophy of the observer addresses the fundamental role observation plays in shaping reality, knowledge, and personal experience. From quantum mechanics and metaphysics to ethics and existentialism, the observer is often seen as a critical factor that influences the nature of reality, perception, and even morality. The relationship between the observer and the observed challenges our understanding of objectivity, subjectivity, and the nature of existence itself.

[jasmi-n]

Quantum Physics and Manifestation: The Intersection

Quantum Physics: is the branch of physics that studies phenomena occurring on extremely small scales, such as atoms and subatomic particles. Unlike classical physics, which deals with the macroscopic world and its well-defined laws, quantum physics introduces concepts that challenge human intuition, such as wave-particle duality and quantum entanglement.

The Intersection: The relationship between quantum physics and manifestation is a topic that generates considerable discussion, both in scientific and spiritual circles. The central idea is that principles of quantum physics can provide a theoretical basis for the practice of manifestation, which involves creating the desired reality through thoughts and intentions.

The Principle of Superposition - In quantum physics, the principle of superposition suggests that a particle can exist in multiple states at the same time until it is observed. This means that, on a fundamental level, reality is a field of possibilities.

Manifestation: Applying this concept to manifestation, we can see reality as multiple possibilities coexisting, which only materialize when we focus our attention and intention. When you concentrate on a specific desire or goal, you are, in a way, "observing" that possibility and thus collapsing it, making it become reality. Observation collapses this superposition into a single state.

The Observer Effect - Another key concept in quantum physics is the observer effect, which postulates that the mere observation of a phenomenon can alter its outcome. In quantum experiments, the presence of the observer influences the behavior of particles.

Manifestation: This principle strongly resonates with the idea that our thoughts and beliefs shape our reality. When we deeply believe in something and direct our energy towards that goal, we are, in essence, influencing the "behavior" of the environment to align with our intentions.

Quantum Entanglement - Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two particles become connected in such a way that the state of one instantly affects the state of the other, regardless of the distance separating them.

Manifestation: This concept can be seen as an interconnection of all beings and events in the universe. Our intentions and actions not only impact our immediate environment but can also have global repercussions, linking with other energies and influencing seemingly disconnected events. In other words, our thoughts and intentions can have a broader impact on the world around us, as a form of "manifestation."

Reality as Energy - Quantum physics reveals that, at its core, everything in the universe is energy.

Manifestation: Like attracts like. This means that our internal state (our thoughts or beliefs) attracts experiences that resonate on the same wavelength. By elevating our thoughts to what we want, we can attract circumstances and opportunities that are aligned with our deepest desires.

However, this combination of scientific principles suggests that by cultivating a positive and focused mental state on what we want, we can influence our experiences and outcomes in meaningful ways, even if the exact mechanics of this process are not yet fully understood.

[loveandanalysis]

Juneleb Day 12 | TRANSCRIPT | Where Our Dreams Meet: Love and Deepspace X Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences 

Caleb speaking:

I had a dream. Before my eyes the vast universe stretched endlessly, and we were two tiny specks of dust within it. I saw you—so small—running to me, and without thinking, my arms spread wide, ready to catch you. In that breath, everything flowed backward. And there we fell together, holding each other, into the reverse current of time.

Quantum Entanglement - Eternal Belonging: 

See these particles? How they’ve entangled… reminds me of how you used to tug on my sleeve. From the moment they are created, particles in a pair are forever linked. No matter how far apart they are—even across galaxies—measuring one instantly affects the state of the other. This is called quantum entanglement. It’s a connection that transcends distance, creates entanglement, and links one another. Just as right now, the one responding to you is the current me standing before you, but all your thoughts and longings from now on will have their place to belong, because I will always be here. 

Accretion Disk - Black Hole’s Companion: 

The gravitational pull is strong. Hold on tight to me. The giant abyssal maw before us is a black hole, and the glowing ring around it is its accretion disk. The black hole’s immense gravity pulls in surrounding gas, dust, and other matter. But instead of falling straight in, this material spirals into a glowing, high-speed whirlpool as conservation of angular momentum flings it into orbit. The accretion disk also “breathes.” Its oscillation frequency is related to the black hole’s mass. And now… as we orbit around it, we also share the same frequency of heartbeats.

Oscillations are happening, but fortunately, this is just a dream, and I’m right here with you. There’s nothing to be afraid of. 

Gravitational Waves - Spacetime Ripples 

When the mass distribution of celestial bodies changes, they cause spacetime to warp, creating ripples called gravitational waves. The more dramatic the spacetime distortion, the stronger the waves become. These waves travel billions of light-years, carrying information about these events. By the time they reach Earth, our detectors translate them into letters from afar, bearing the soliloquy of celestial bodies. They are ripples in spacetime, stirring distant breath. 

Before waking up, is there somewhere you’d like to go? I’ll go with you. The world keeps changing, but “us” will never change as we stay side by side, always.

Decoherence - Destiny

When quantum superposition that once existed can no longer be observed, collapsing into a measurable state, we call this decoherence. Many factors can affect observation. They’re endless, infinite. But don’t be afraid. Even when various obstacles exist, when you open your eyes, I’ll remain your constant observable, always by your side. 

The universe has always been humanity’s dream, an object of both awe and longing. Within its embrace, everything unfolds, and all matter is given the chance to be drawn to one another across the void. But beyond all that, the gravity between us is real, undeniable, and pulling us together in this vast universe.

Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences:

Dear Miss Hunter of Lincoln City, 

Greetings from the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to you and Mr. Caleb Xia Yizhou on completing your shared scientific journey, and we wish Mr. Caleb Xia Yizhou a very Happy Birthday! 

We are made of particles, and we spend a lifetime learning to understand their silent language. In that lies the most romantic miracle of physics. Behind those seemingly cold numbers lies the most sincere curiosity of small individuals toward the vast world. 

For this very reason, every step of inquiry carries infinite meaning, and your exploration of the physical world driven by curiosity is one of the most moving responses ever received in this long journey. 

In the future, we look forward to continuing this journey alongside you. We believe that science is not only the study of universal evolution, but the art of human connection across the cosmic vastness.  May you always pull toward one another in the darkness, becoming each other’s only certainty. 

May this journey you have written together remain profound, pure, and incredible, just like physics itself.

[indigochromatic]

I sent this ask to someone else but I'd like to ask more systems - may I ask what your opinion is on subjective reality within systems? Systems that don't have consistency in the headspace, or a consistent timeline, consistent memories...that sort of thing. I'm struggling a bit with that now and it's really freaking me out :( so I'd love to hear your take, if you'd be willing

Hey there! Yeah for sure, we'll take a crack at this. First, though: Content warning for discussions of reality, subjective reality, unreality, etc. If too much that stuff makes your brain unhappy, maybe skim or skip this one.

I'm sorry to hear you're struggling a bit rn, Anon. It's not fun to feel like you don't have "solid ground to stand on", and having to deal with not having a consensus about your autobiographical narrative can be really frustrating and scary.

Lemme try to come at this from a couple angles. First off, I'll say something about how we think of big-picture philosophy, which is that everyone has a subjective reality to some extent. There's a reason it's called "consensus reality" not "objective reality", and that's because no two people on earth are having the exact same experience. Perception is biased, memories slowly alter every time they're recalled, interpretation differs wildly depending on context. The human brain isn't an accurate recording device, it's a pile of synapses telling stories to itself in the dark.

So what do we do with that? Philosophically, that's a big question, and I'm not gonna pretend I have all that figured out. Learn to yourselves stories that give your life meaning and purpose. Practically speaking, though? That'll depend on what you're struggling with specifically, and what you're hoping to change.

For example, let's take memory consistency. The two of us have generally pretty consistent memories (e.g. we agree on what events happened rather than having conflicting memories about it), but we also have a shit memory overall--we've described it like we're living in a sliding window of 2-8 days, and everything else is kind of a mess since around 2019-2020. We also have ADHD, so that doesn't help either. What do we do? Honestly, just super basic stuff like "keep a calendar notebook that we write stuff down in to keep track of it, and don't worry if it's not perfect or fully complete", "set alarm reminders for non-routine things we don't want to miss, like medical appointments or phone calls with friends", and "check in with each other when we can, to ask if we're missing anything (and just to say hey)". We also know our memory is affected by our overall dissociation levels, so just generally trying to take care of ourselves and slowly improve our life situation is pretty likely to help, too.

On headspace consistency, though--I'm actually a little confused by what you're asking. Are you worried because your headspace isn't static and changes a lot? Anon, with love, that shit is so common, I wouldn't be worried about it in the slightest. Our headspace is a whole mess, for instance--not only is it different based on whether you're in "my mind" vs "L's mind", even the small handful of semi-consistent places and/or 'themes' change around all the time, not just day-to-day like the weather but also evolving over time, especially as we learn more and process more stuff and experience more things. Hell, my exomemories don't even all have a consistent continuity. And even the "semi-consistent" aspects of our headspace basically exists in a sort of...Schrodinger's Headspace superposition, most of the time? For example, there's a whole, like, Hades/The Spirit Realm in there--except when it doesn't exist, or when it's wrapped into some other part of headspace, or retroactively never existed, or was all just symbolic anyways, or is personified in one of my facets instead, or...well, you get the idea. If you're looking to create a bit more solidity in your headspace, it's usually possible to develop more 'concrete' headspace locations by practicing visualization over time--this can be guided meditation stuff, writing about it, collecting a moodboard of images, constructing a model of it in minecraft or another "virtual space-builder" game/program/whatever, etc. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't happen overnight, this stuff can take a bit of practice to solidify.

Timeline consistency: yeah. That one can be especially hard to avoid when you have between-system-member amnesia in general, and/or multiple periods over your life where there were different main fronters. We're not experts on this front, but a lot of it, as far as we can tell, tends to come down to just...trusting each other, as a system. You've all got pieces of the puzzle, and some folks' pieces are written in map coordinates while other folks have cryptic, symbolic riddles--they're all important pieces, even when they conflict. And sometimes you have to kinda let go of trying to ever Perfectly Reconstruct Exactly What Happened, and focus more on what you want your life to look like now and moving forward. Not sure if that system member's exomemories are 'purely symbolic/emotional' or have some basis in physical events? Ask them how they want to deal with it, and what support they want. Sometimes the narrative is more important than the events, because the events themselves are gone. They're over. What we carry with us--everyone, systems and singlets--is the narrative we've told ourselves about the events, and that's the part that grows and changes with us throughout our lives.

Anyways, that's my take on it. Hopefully this gets at a bit of what you were asking about, Anon? Feel free to toss us followup questions if you want, thanks for the opportunity to talk about all this a little. -S

[swagpeachwhispers]

hello and welcome back my swagpeachwhisper family! i have a very odd question for you all today… do you prefer dogs or cats and BEFORE you type in your opinion in the comments i would like you to make your opinion as complicated as possible like this

“I like cats because they embody the quantum superposition of independence and affection, simultaneously existing as self-sufficient predators and unrepentant seekers of human attention. Their purring serves as a natural frequency resonating at 25-150 Hz, scientifically proven to reduce stress and promote healing, subtly altering the human psyche. Furthermore, their enigmatic behaviour challenges our anthropocentric assumptions, reminding us that trust and loyalty need not be unconditional to be profound.”

now GO!!!

[tinybirdsupporter]

PLAYING GOD

Hospitals are zones that play God.

At base observation, they are the definition of liminal. I was watching a tv show that transitioned from outdoor scenes to scenes in a hospital. The whiplash from sunny atmosphere to a blue-light ridden atmosphere was severely smacked into me. I understood this as a feeling called “liminality”: places that don’t quite fit in one reality or another.

Hospitals shut the organic world out. This is what they do. They sanitize and build pristine white tile floors and ceilings. A blue stripe in the middle for the slightest reference to the somewhat comforting color, a color associated with trust and health and hospitals. In nature, unique colorings warn for danger, for poison, they scream I AM NOT NATURAL to the common predator: this certain prey is off limits, they’ve built a fail-safe punishment for the consumer. It’s evolved, it’s separate, it’s unique, it’s supernatural.

Hospitals shut it all out: bugs, dirt, trees, plants, certain people at closing, unknown contraband, bacteria and viruses. It completely removes itself from the scheme of nature. In this way it is similar to playing God: they reproduce complete unabridged knowledge onto the mortal subject, only possible through the removal of all contaminants (that being nature itself) and having the proper tools to do so. Hospitals step above the mortal that lives in nature. Nature is infested with force of life and death, land creation and erosion. All tangible forms are erasable, no matter the different time it takes. Rock disintegrates, chemicals have their half-life, humans have our deaths: hospitals replicate perfect superposition from the chaos-ness of mortality. They assume the position of God, a place that performs miracles through separating itself from the destructible. Tangible affect but untouchable material. Nothing else claims that spot. This is God.

This is an illusion, somewhat (not to say hospitals don’t perform this unnatural position well, just that this superposition is only plausible through vigorous maintained effort.) A cleaner every morning noon and night. Impenetrable shields of plastic and mask. Ten mandatory years, wholly unyielding rigorous study. Ten years of perfecting the techniques of pure, unobtrusive, pearlescent correction. Mastering the unnatural. The techniques of our divinely given systems.

And that is surely God. How far must we extrapolate ourselves to reach the newest superposition?

[beyourselfchulanmaria]

The old mechanical view of death is outdated.

With so much death all around us, from the pandemic to the war in Ukraine to all the mass shootings, you might wonder what it all means. Queen Elizabeth gone. Betty White gone. And perhaps even a loved one of yours gone. They no longer exist, right? They are just memories, at least from a rational scientific perspective. But what if you’re wrong?

Dr. Caroline Soames-Watkins also believed that the world around her existed as a hard, cold reality ticking away like a clock. Death was a foregone conclusion—until she learned different. Caro, the protagonist of my new novel co-written with award-winning sci-fi author Nancy Kress, also thought she had the world figured out. Not her personal world, which has been upended by controversy, but how the physical world works and how her consciousness operates within it. Broke and without a job, she accepts a job offer from her great-uncle, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist who runs a research facility studying the space between biology and consciousness—between the self and what we assume is reality. They are on the verge of a humanity-altering discovery, which throws Caro into danger—love, loss, and death—that she could never have imagined possible.

Observer takes Caro on a mind-expanding journey to the very edge of science, challenging her to think about life and the power of the imagination in startling new ways. The ideas behind Observer are based on real science, starting with the famous two-slit experiments, in which the presence of an observer affects the path taken by a sub-atomic particle, and moves step-by-step into cutting-edge science about quantum entanglement, on-going experiments applying quantum-level physics to the macro-world, the multiverse, and the nature of time and consciousness itself.

Death represents a break in the linear continuity of space and time

Our classical way of thinking is based on the belief that the world has an objective observer-independent existence, and so we think life is just the activity of carbon and an admixture of molecules—we live a while then rot in the ground. We believe in death because we associate ourselves with our body and we know bodies die. End of story.

Only that story is false, and a long series of experiments suggests death is not the terminal event we think—rather, it just represents a break in the linear continuity of space and time.

Einstein was right. After the death of an old friend, he wrote “Now Besso has departed from this strange world a little ahead of me. That means nothing. People like us, who believe in physics, know that the distinction between past, present and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion.”

For example, you are young in one ‘now’, and you will experience wrinkles and graying hair in another ‘now.’ But in reality, they all exist in superposition. I like to think of it like one of those old phonographs. Listening to the music doesn’t alter the record itself. Depending on where the needle is, you hear a certain song. This is the present—the music before and after the song is the past and the future. In like manner, every moment endures in nature always. The record doesn’t go away. All ‘nows.’ Like all songs on the record, exist simultaneously, although we can only experience it piece by piece.

Immortality doesn’t mean a perpetual existence in time—it resides outside of time altogether.

We generally reject the idea of multiple universes as science fiction, but it turns out there is scientific support for this popular genre. One well-known aspect of quantum physics is that observations can’t be predicted absolutely. Instead, there is a range of possible observations, each with a different probability. One mainstream explanation, the ‘many-worlds’ interpretation, states that each of these possible observations corresponds to a different universe –the ‘multiverse.’ There are an infinite number of universes, and everything that could possibly happen occurs in some universe. Death does not exist in any real sense in these scenarios. All possible universes exist simultaneously, regardless of what happens in any one of them.

💫 Our bodies may die but as Einstein said, that means nothing. Our consciousness continues to exist just as surely as the songs on the vinyl record.

[nnacisss]

Consciousness and Physical Reality in the Context of Quantum Mechanics

Today we will discuss an article by Viktor Petrenko and Anatoly Suprun published in 2019 in the journal “Yaroslavl Pedagogical Bulletin” titled “The Mental Map of Consciousness and Representation of Physical Reality in Space-Time.”

The main idea of this article is to understand how our perception of the world relates to physical laws. Anatoly and Viktor argue that the traditional scientific approach, which views the universe as something objective and independent from human consciousness, is not entirely correct. New findings in quantum physics show that consciousness plays a crucial role in how we perceive reality.

Key points of the article:

1. The Role of Observer in Quantum Experiments.

Observation affects the outcomes of quantum experiments. In quantum mechanics, there is what’s called the observer effect: until observed, a quantum system exists in a state of uncertainty (superposition), only acquiring definite characteristics upon observation. Consciousness acts as an active participant in shaping reality.

A good example of superposition is Schrödinger's thought experiment with his cat, where it can be both alive and dead simultaneously. Only through the act of observing does the system collapse into one of these states.

2. Perception of Reality Through Objects.

People usually view the world as a collection of separate objects in three-dimensional space. This perspective, known as object-oriented thinking, limits our understanding of complex processes at the level of smallest particles. Here comes the concept of non-locality, according to which events may be interconnected even over large distances without any apparent cause-and-effect relationship. As noted by the authors, phenomena such as photon entanglement demonstrate correlations beyond classical notions of space and time.

3. Collective Unconscious.

Another interesting point is the concept of collective unconscious proposed by Jung. The authors believe that individual consciousness is connected to something larger, which also influences physical processes. Research in this area suggests that personal experiences and beliefs might shape the overall structure of reality, creating resonance between inner experience and external world.

4. Criticism of Traditional Approach.

Modern science often disregards the possibility of consciousness influencing physical reality, adhering strictly to materialistic principles. However, many experiments in quantum physics challenge this stance. One prominent example is Aspect's experiment confirming nonlocal correlations between distant particles, contradicting conventional ideas about causality and event localization.

Anatoly P. Suprun* — Candidate of Psychological Sciences, Associate Professor, Senior Researcher at the Laboratory for Cognitive Studies of the Institute for Systems Analysis of the Federal Research Center “Informatics and Control” RAS.

Viktor F. Petrenko* — Soviet and Russian psychologist specializing in general psychology and experimental psycho-semantics, professor, corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

[itsdevblog]

Quantum Computing

Quantum Computing: The Future of Problem Solving

In the world of modern computing, we’re rapidly approaching the limits of classical technology. Moore’s Law — the observation that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles about every two years — is slowing down. As we push the boundaries of what's physically possible with silicon, an entirely new field is emerging to redefine computing as we know it: Quantum Computing.

What is Quantum Computing?

Traditional computers use bits — 1s and 0s — as the smallest unit of data. Quantum computers, on the other hand, use qubits. These aren't just 1 or 0 — they can be both at the same time, thanks to a principle called superposition.

Even more fascinating, qubits can become entangled, meaning the state of one qubit instantly influences the state of another, no matter how far apart they are. This creates a level of parallelism and interconnectedness that classical computers simply can't replicate.

Core Concepts

Let’s break down a few of the quantum mechanics principles behind this revolutionary technology:

Superposition: A qubit can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This allows quantum computers to perform many calculations at once.

Entanglement: When qubits become linked, the state of one directly affects the other, leading to faster, more complex computations.

Interference: Quantum algorithms use interference to amplify correct results and cancel out the wrong ones.

Why Does It Matter?

Quantum computing isn't just a faster computer — it's a different kind of computer. Problems that would take classical supercomputers millions of years to solve could be tackled by quantum machines in minutes.

Potential Applications:

Cryptography: Quantum computers could crack today's encryption standards, but they could also create virtually unbreakable quantum encryption.

Drug discovery: Simulating molecules at the quantum level could lead to revolutionary new medications.

Financial modeling: Quantum systems can simulate complex market behaviors to better predict risks and opportunities.

Logistics and optimization: Companies like Volkswagen and DHL are already exploring quantum algorithms for route optimization and supply chain management.

Where Are We Now?

As of 2025, quantum computing is still in its early stages. Companies like IBM, Google, Microsoft, and startups like Rigetti and IonQ are racing to build more stable and scalable quantum systems. One major hurdle is decoherence — qubits are fragile and lose their quantum state quickly when disturbed by their environment.

The current era is often called NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum), meaning we're dealing with imperfect, small-scale quantum machines. But even now, researchers are achieving "quantum supremacy" — solving specific tasks faster than the best classical computers.

What’s Next?

We're not quite at the stage where quantum computers can replace your laptop or smartphone. But they are poised to become powerful tools for scientists, researchers, and industries facing problems classical computers can't handle.

Quantum computing won't just improve technology — it may transform science, economics, security, and our very understanding of the universe.

Final Thoughts

Quantum computing represents one of the most profound technological shifts in history. It’s still experimental, and there’s a long way to go. But like the dawn of classical computing in the 1940s, today's research could lead to a future where quantum machines help solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges.

The quantum revolution isn’t just coming — it’s already begun.

[gravesung]

my theorized ish quantum physics explanation of tears in bios.hock: infi.nite and the luteces' dialogue (constants and variables etc)

(aka raine takes a crack at an extremely complex quantum physics dilemma and tries to apply it to a videy game)

this is gonna get really really long and probably SUPER confusing so if you wanna ask questions go ahead, even tho i might not be able to answer intelligently.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_entanglement here's the wikipedia article on entanglement if you want a more detailed explanation http://phys.org/news/2014-09-quantum-teleportation.html here's the results of the photon experiment http://science.howstuffworks.com/.../teleportation1.htm here's more quantum teleportation experiments — i first made this post in 2014, but this article was updated in february after some new developments in 2024!

okay well i still have no idea how the lutece particle would work except with magnets so strong that the city would have to have no metal in it at all which wouldn't make sense, BUT i think i have some idea how tears work. quantum superposition, the multiverse, and entanglement are all involved in it. maybe.

entanglement is the theory ( that was tested and proven i think?? with multiple experiments so im not sure if its a law or not now ) that when two subatomic particles interact, their information is connected so that they can interact even when far apart. like... the example used in the documentary i watched (which was taken off youtube rip) that you have two spinning wheels that can either land on red or blue. if the wheels are apart so that one is on earth and one is on the moon, if you spin one wheel and land on red, the other automatically spins and lands on blue. its a fixed reaction. so if two electrons are entangled, they spin the opposite directions and are affected by outside factors the exact opposite way, even if miles apart. which brings me to superposition.

superposition (((( this is just a bonus bit if you like physics-losophy so if you just wanna know vidya games and science skip this lil section. )))) states that if an object can be two or more possible states — ie. binary bits being 1 or 0 // the wheel landing on red or blue — it doesn't provably exist in either specific state until you observe it. the bit is both 0 and 1 until you lock eyes on it and it become one or the other, but before anyone LOOKS at it, it is superposed: both at the same time. ( you know those silly 80s music posters where a big head is overlaid at 50% opacity over the wide shot? the head is superposed over the landscape.) the wheel has landed on both red and blue. but if you look at it, its only one or the other. the most famous example of this is schrödinger's cat.

i'm not sure what elizabeth means when she says she herself is a quantum superposition except that since her pinky was cut off through a tear, she is in two universes at once, which for some ungodly reason gave her the power to alter time and space. elizabeth is both here and there, which pretty much just. broke physics. universe machine broke. that's what i think she means, because if that isn't what she means then the word isn't being used correctly. which is fine. she's 19.

quick explanation of the multiverse/the many worlds theory: if you look at a binary bit and its value is 1, another universe exists where you looked at the same bit at the exact same time and it was 0. meaning there are literally infinite ( ba dum tss ) universes, one for every possible outcome of every possible decision that has, is, and will be made. what if john wilkes booth had missed. what if you decided to drink your coffee with soy creamer instead of dairy. obviously the former would change a lot more about the modern age than the latter, but both would be equally diverging parallel universes.

now, tears.

scientists developed ideas about human teleportation using entanglement based on an experiment involving three photons (the smallest particles of light and electromagnetic energy, which contain no mass). they wanted to send one photon across space by teleportation, aka have it travel from point a to point b without actually crossing the space between point a and point b. two of those photons were entangled. the physicist performed the experiment on the canary islands and sent one photon (photon 1) to another island while the other (photon 2) stayed where he was. he introduced a third (photon 3) and entangled it with photon 2. so if = represents entanglement, then photon 3=photon 2=photon 1. like metamours. lol

now here's the fun part: when they entangled photon 3 with photon 2, photon 2 took every piece of data making up photon 3, copied it, and photon 1 became a completely identical copy of photon 3, and photon 3 itself was destroyed.

so basically what happened was photon 2 — which, remember, was entangled individually with both of the other particles — took the information (like our DNA) of photon 3, transferred it to photon 1, and photon 1's DNA was replaced by photon 3's . essentially it became a new photon 3 without photon 3 ever crossing the actual space. it basically degenerated in one spot and regenerated in another without technically traveling.

but remember: energy cannot be created or destroyed. so what the experiments theorize is that photon 2 acted as an intermediary to teleport photon 3 to photon 1!

see, the problem with human teleportation is that first of all, you could have a situation like The Fly. any "noise" or disturbance enters The Zone with you and you might end up getting uhhhhhhhhhhhhh fused disturbingly with it. second of all, electrons don't have mass, and they don't exactly have senses of self. we would probably become screwed up AND entanglement has never been observed, much less attempted, with objects larger than subatomic particles.

but suppose you could: take a person and open a door, and the person steps through. the door, that stretched plane, is entangled with a door/stretched plane in another place, so when you step through it, it copies your data, absorbs the energy that is freed up when you pass through, and uses that energy to create a new you on the other side from the data it copied.

you stand in new york and look through the door, and see paris. you walk through the door, you're in paris, you look back through the door and see new york. you didn't cross any distance except through the door, so it's point a to point b without actually traveling. that's a tear!!! what i think happens is that elizabeth is entangled with the multiverse, so she can freely choose to entangle a spot in the current universe with the same spot in another universe (or another spot, depending on how much power she can use). she opens a tear in front of a bowl, and through the tear sees a cup. in her universe, it's a bowl, but in a parallel universe entangled (as all universes are, together, like a giant web) with hers, it was a cup.

some of the problems possible with human transportation through entanglement are made visible in infinite, too - namely, brain damage. hemorrhaging due to DNA not rearranging correctly, as well as the brain fabricating memories from old ones, could both be forms of temporary (or permanent) brain damage caused by your DNA REARRANGING ITSELF WHICH KINDA MAKES SENSe. so that's a thing. but yeah ! tears are basically opening a door to any one instance of infinite possibilities.

"from this angle, what do you see?" "dead." "and this one?" "alive." "heads or tails? constants and variables."

what the luteces mean by constants and variables is that constants are things that MUST be the same in EVERY universe that exists. that's just a thing for plot reasons, aka a man will always be a thing, a lighthouse will always be a thing, a city will always be a thing, but everything else about the plot can change - i.e. booker can become the leader of the vox, or on a smaller scale he could just never even make it to the tower and fall off the city 5 minutes after entering it. god knows how many times that happens. because the idea of constants is really just plot / narrative funsies, you can invent new constants for any crossover verse: two people who always meet, some kind of theme or structure or event that always exists. not quite like a canon event in spiderverse, because it's not just that the universe is doomed if it doesn't happen: it can't not happen. it ALWAYS happens. No. Matter. What. thank you for coming to my tedtalk

[connectparanormal]

Ghosts and Quantum Physics

At the intriguing but extremely speculative crossroads of ghosts and quantum physics, science and the paranormal appear to merge. Ghosts, which are commonly believed to be the spirits of the dead, have long played a prominent role in cultural narratives and human folklore. Contrarily, quantum physics explores the basic ideas guiding particles' microscopic activity, frequently uncovering events that contradict our preconceived notions about reality. One of the most fascinating aspects of quantum physics is the concept of superposition, which permits particles to exist in multiple states simultaneously until they undergo measurement. As a result of this concept, some have theorized that quantum physics could provide a framework for comprehending paranormal experiences. If particles can be somewhere at once, for example, is it possible that awareness or energy may also exist in a similar form, enabling the manifestations that we see as ghosts?

Another quantum concept that frequently comes up in these conversations is entanglement, where particles link and instantly affect each other regardless of distance. This phenomenon has sparked the theory that energy or information could persist in connecting across multiple planes of existence, potentially explaining residual hauntings or the continuous presence of spirits in specific locations. It's crucial to remember that these interpretations are purely theoretical and unsupported by actual data. Various interpretations of quantum mechanics suggest the existence of parallel universes or the multiverse, adding another dimension to the discussion. It is possible, albeit totally hypothetical, that what we understand as ghosts could actually be creatures or energy from other realities that cross with our own. This idea fits well with other paranormal ideas that propose that ghosts are not deceased people's spirits but rather entities from alternate timelines or dimensions that momentarily enter our reality. The scientific community is often skeptical of applying quantum physics to paranormal events, despite these fascinating similarities. Even though it seems strange and counterintuitive, quantum physics deals with subatomic particles; its ideas do not apply to the macroscopic world, which is where ghost experiences are reported. The transition from quantum activity to paranormal events is frequently fraught with speculation and lacks strong scientific support. Furthermore, psychological, environmental, or physical reasons account for the majority of reported ghost encounters. For instance, studies have shown that infrasound, electromagnetic fields, and sleep paralysis can cause experiences that individuals may mistake for paranormal ones. These explanations offer a more credible account of ghost sightings and hauntings since they are based on accepted scientific concepts.

However, the study of ghosts through the prism of quantum physics never fails to pique curiosity. It represents a larger human effort to make sense of the unknown and bring scientific explanations for life's mysteries together. Even though quantum mechanics is not now accepted by science as a viable explanation for ghostly events, the conversation between these two fields demonstrates the everlasting wonder and curiosity that fuel both scientific and paranormal research. Ultimately, the connection between ghosts and quantum physics is still a matter of conjecture, more pertaining to philosophical and creative inquiry than actual scientific study. It emphasizes our need to make sense of the mysteries around us, whether by applying the exacting techniques of science or the intricate web of superstitious beliefs and folklore.

[consuelgreen]

Quantum Computing: The Future of Technology Unveiled

Introduction

In the realm of computing, quantum computing stands as a revolutionary leap forward from classical computation. Harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, quantum computing utilizes quantum bits or qubits, which can exist in superposition and entanglement, offering exponential processing power over classical bits.

Basics of Quantum Computing

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing involves the use of quantum bits, or qubits, which differ fundamentally from classical bits. While classical bits are binary and can only exist in one state (0 or 1), qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously due to superposition. This property allows quantum computers to perform complex calculations much faster than classical computers.

Superposition and Entanglement

Superposition is the ability of qubits to exist in multiple states at once, enabling parallel computation. Entanglement links qubits together so that the state of one qubit instantaneously affects the state of another, regardless of distance.

Quantum Gates and Circuits

Similar to classical computers, quantum computers use quantum gates to manipulate qubits. These gates perform operations like NOT, AND, and OR, but in the quantum realm, with additional gates like Hadamard and CNOT.

Quantum Computing Technologies

Quantum Hardware

Superconducting Qubits

Superconducting qubits use superconducting circuits to create and manipulate qubits. They are among the most advanced and widely researched types of quantum hardware.

Trapped Ion Quantum Computers

Trapped ions are used as qubits by trapping and manipulating individual ions using electromagnetic fields. They offer long coherence times, essential for quantum computing operations.

Photonic Quantum Computers

Photonic quantum computers use photons as qubits, leveraging properties such as polarization and phase to perform quantum operations.

Topological Quantum Computers

Topological quantum computers rely on exotic states of matter called anyons for qubits. These qubits are inherently more stable against errors due to their topological properties.

Quantum Software

Quantum Algorithms

Quantum algorithms, such as Shor's algorithm and Grover's algorithm, exploit quantum phenomena to solve problems significantly faster than classical algorithms.

Quantum Programming Languages

Languages like Qiskit and Quipper allow programmers to write quantum code, defining quantum circuits and executing operations on quantum computers.

Quantum Simulators

Quantum simulators replicate quantum systems on classical computers, enabling researchers to test algorithms and protocols before running them on actual quantum hardware.

Applications of Quantum Computing

Cryptography and Security

Quantum Cryptography

Quantum cryptography utilizes quantum key distribution (QKD) to secure communications. It leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to ensure data privacy and integrity.

Breaking Classical Encryption

Quantum computers have the potential to break current encryption standards like RSA and ECC, prompting the development of post-quantum cryptography methods.

Optimization Problems

Quantum Annealing

Quantum annealers like those developed by D-Wave Systems optimize solutions for complex problems such as route optimization and financial modeling.

Applications in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Quantum computing can optimize supply chains by analyzing vast amounts of data and finding the most efficient routes and schedules.

Machine Learning and AI

Quantum Machine Learning

Quantum machine learning algorithms promise to enhance pattern recognition and data analysis tasks by leveraging quantum parallelism and optimization.

Quantum Neural Networks

Quantum neural networks mimic the neurons and synapses of the human brain, potentially leading to more advanced AI systems capable of learning from quantum data.

Scientific Computing

Quantum Chemistry

Quantum computers can simulate molecular interactions accurately, revolutionizing drug discovery and material science by predicting molecular behavior.

Quantum Physics Simulations

Quantum computers can simulate quantum systems, allowing physicists to study phenomena that are impossible to model with classical computers.

Challenges in Quantum Computing

Decoherence

Decoherence occurs when qubits lose their quantum state due to interaction with the environment, posing a significant challenge to maintaining stable quantum operations.

Error Correction

Quantum error correction codes are essential to mitigate errors caused by decoherence and other quantum noise, ensuring reliable quantum computation.

Scaling Issues

Scaling quantum computers to handle larger and more complex problems while maintaining coherence and minimizing errors remains a formidable challenge.

Quantum Computing in Industry

Financial Services

Quantum Finance

Quantum computing can optimize financial portfolios, predict market trends, and enhance risk management strategies through quantum algorithms.

Risk Analysis

Quantum computers can assess financial risks by simulating market scenarios and optimizing investment strategies in real time.

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

Drug Discovery

Quantum computers can accelerate drug discovery by modeling molecular interactions and predicting the efficacy of potential drugs.

Molecular Modeling

Quantum simulations enable precise modeling of molecular structures and behaviors, facilitating the development of new materials and pharmaceuticals.

Aerospace and Defense

Quantum Sensing

Quantum sensors can enhance navigation, imaging, and surveillance capabilities, offering unprecedented accuracy and sensitivity.

Secure Communication

Quantum encryption ensures secure communication channels resistant to eavesdropping, critical for military and government applications.

Quantum Computing and Future Technologies

Quantum Internet

Quantum Key Distribution

Quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols enable secure communication over quantum networks, immune to interception.

Global Quantum Networks

Future quantum internet architectures aim to connect quantum computers worldwide, enabling distributed quantum computing and data transfer.

Quantum Sensors

Quantum sensors promise revolutionary advances in imaging, medical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring, surpassing the capabilities of classical sensors.

Quantum AI

Integrating quantum computing with AI systems could lead to exponential improvements in machine learning, pattern recognition, and decision-making processes.

Ethical and Social Implications

Privacy and Surveillance

Quantum computing's ability to break classical encryption raises concerns about privacy and the potential for state-sponsored surveillance.

Impact on Employment

The advent of quantum computing may disrupt industries reliant on classical computing, potentially displacing jobs while creating new opportunities in quantum technology.

Government Initiatives and Funding

National Quantum Initiatives

Countries worldwide are investing heavily in quantum research and development, recognizing its transformative potential in science, technology, and national security.

Investment Trends

Private and public sectors are increasing investments in quantum startups and research institutions, driving innovation and commercialization of quantum technologies.

Conclusion

Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in computational power and capability, promising groundbreaking applications across various industries. As research progresses and technological challenges are overcome, quantum computers are poised to revolutionize fields from cryptography and finance to healthcare and artificial intelligence. The future holds limitless possibilities for quantum computing, shaping a new era of innovation and discovery.

[betshy]

The Psychological Implications of Quantum Phenomena

Quantum physics is a branch of science that deals with the behaviour of particles on a subatomic level. It has long been a topic of fascination and speculation, with its strange and counterintuitive phenomena challenging our understanding of the natural world. But what about the psychological implications of these phenomena? How do they affect our perception of reality and our understanding of the self? One of the most well-known aspects of quantum physics is the concept of superposition, which states that a particle can exist in multiple states at once until it is observed or measured. This idea challenges our traditional understanding of reality, where objects are assumed to exist in only one state at a time. This has led some researchers to suggest that consciousness may play a role in determining the state of a particle, blurring the line between the observer and the observed. Another key concept in quantum physics is entanglement, where particles become connected in such a way that the state of one particle is instantly correlated with the state of another, regardless of the distance separating them. This phenomenon suggests a connectedness and interdependence between particles that cannot be explained by classical physics. It raises questions about the nature of reality and the boundaries of individuality. These and other quantum phenomena have sparked a number of theories and hypotheses about consciousness, perception, and the nature of reality. Some researchers have proposed that quantum mechanics may be the key to understanding phenomena such as consciousness, intuition, and psychic abilities. Others have suggested that the strange behaviour of particles on the quantum level may mirror the complexity and unpredictability of human behaviour. The implications of quantum phenomena for psychology are still largely speculative, but they raise interesting questions about the nature of reality, the limits of human knowledge, and the interconnectedness of all things. As our understanding of quantum physics continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these concepts influence our understanding of the mind and the self. Read the full article