Human perception as a phenomenon of quantization

What is it about?

In our article, we delve into the fascinating realm of human perception, drawing parallels between cognitive processes and the principles of quantum mechanics. We highlight how quantum structures have been used to understand human decision-making and reasoning, leading to the emergence of fields like quantum cognition and quantum information science. Our study focuses on visual perception, using Google Images as a dataset to explore the presence of quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement. Through examples like the “pet-fish problem,” we demonstrate how these quantum structures manifest in image combinations, revealing intriguing patterns akin to interference effects. Our investigation extends beyond specific cases to propose a general framework for understanding human perception as inherently quantum-like, with phenomena such as categorical perception leading to quantization of perceptual elements. We introduce a quantum measurement model and explore the application of quantum mechanics to prototype theory, offering insights into the combination of concepts through interference effects. Overall, our study sheds light on the profound connection between quantum principles and the fundamental processes underlying human perception and cognition.

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Why is it important?

In our exploration of human perception as a form of quantization, we uncover insights that are crucial for understanding the intricate workings of the human mind. By applying principles from quantum mechanics to cognitive processes, we bridge the gap between seemingly disparate fields and reveal fundamental connections that have far-reaching implications. At the heart of our inquiry lies the phenomenon of categorical perception, which offers a lens through which to understand the quantum-like behavior inherent in human cognition. Through meticulous analysis and experimentation, we demonstrate how groups of stimuli coalesce into quanta, leading to a discretization of perceptual dimensions. This quantization of perceptual elements not only sheds light on the underlying structure of human perception but also hints at deeper quantum phenomena at play. Our study goes beyond mere observation, offering a novel framework for conceptualizing human perception. By modeling individual concepts using a quantum prototype theory, we provide a mathematical basis for understanding the emergence of complex cognitive phenomena. This prototype theory, rooted in operational quantum axiomatics, allows us to elucidate the combination of concepts through interference effects, offering new avenues for exploring the dynamics of human thought. Moreover, our findings have practical implications beyond the realm of theoretical inquiry. By uncovering the quantum-like nature of human perception, we pave the way for the development of more sophisticated models of decision-making and reasoning. These models, informed by quantum principles, may offer greater predictive power and accuracy, enabling us to better navigate complex cognitive processes and make more informed choices in various domains. In essence, our research underscores the importance of recognizing the quantum underpinnings of human perception. By bridging the gap between quantum mechanics and cognitive science, we not only deepen our understanding of the human mind but also open up new avenues for interdisciplinary research and practical applications. Ultimately, our work highlights the profound implications of quantum cognition for shaping our understanding of human behavior and cognition.

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