Abstract
We examine aspects of observation, measurement, the role of the observer, and information in the quantum framework of the universe. The results of a class of quantum eraser experiments carried out in the laboratory can be interpreted as indicating that the collapse of the wave function may not necessarily involve choices by observers in space-time. Instead, it is the access to and interpretation of information, outside of space and time, which may be involved. Although not contradicting the standard orthodox interpretation, we believe it extends it and enriches it. Our interpretation is consistent with the presence of a universal Observer in the quantum universe of possibilities. The implications for the quantum universe and the role of the mind are discussed and explored, such as the need for a universal Observer. There is a possibility that individual observers making choices in space and time are really aspects of the existence of the universal Observer.
Quanta and Mind Conference, April 10–11, 2018, SFSU Main Campus.
We dedicate the present work to Akshay Narasimhan.
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Kafatos, M.C., Narasimhan, A. (2019). The Observer and Access to Information in the Quantum Universe. In: de Barros, J.A., Montemayor, C. (eds) Quanta and Mind. Synthese Library, vol 414. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-21908-6_18
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