Quantum Queries

The Mind & Quantum Energy
Since I’ve made positive statements expressing my belief that nature’s (the Creator’s) intelligence/consciousness and humankind’s intelligence/consciousness are identical (“So God Created man in his own image, in the image of God, created he him; male and female created he them.” –Genesis 1:27, KJV), it comes to me that I should explain or detail why I believe this. I am fully aware that there will be those who totally disagree with me regarding my explanation or detailing; however, I have found no other that gives me satisfaction.

Sentiency in a living human is a given, assuming there to be no brain death. Various levels of intelligence are also a given, since this characteristic of the human species has been observed and evaluated for many years. However, I am not interested in sentiency nor the different levels of intelligence as target issues. I am interested in how sentiency and intelligence, including mind (in all forms and levels) are influenced by—possibly given birth by forces that are non-local (outside of materialistic explanation.) A couple of immediate affirmations are necessary. First, there is an ecumenical believe in an unknown or mysterious energy that is contained in the universe—unknown in that it is not understood, although inroads to its characteristics are being made. Second, the human brain abounds with structures called neurons that are sensitive to, and reactive to, controlled by this “hidden energy”. I make these two statements based on the quantum physicists’ description of the “hidden” energy as being an “ocean of energy”, quantum energy, “quantum ether”, etc., and of course, based on our present understanding of the physiology of the human brain, and the question of the origin of mind; mainly, though, based on the fact that nothing exists lacking energy; nor are any objects of nature separate and exclusive entities, not influenced by or interactive with all other “energy-existent” objects—like or unlike; therefore, the brain is influenced by, “controlled” by nature’s intelligence/consciousness. Again, this is what physicist, John Hagelin, Ph.D. says:  “This wholly conceptual quantum mechanical world, and the abstract mathematical laws that govern it, is the nonmaterial, inner mind or ‘soul’ behind other matter. It is made of the very stuff that thoughts are made of. Mathematical logic alone governs its behavior. This abstract, non-material quantum world underlies, and governs, the other material universe.” This is to say that everything in the universe consists of energy, and is part and parcel of all energy that exists, and that everything consists of the same energy—is made of the same stuff.  This is also based on the ponderous amount of evidence gleaned from work by quantum physicists who deal with the indivisible particles of energy called quanta.

I have described the main ideas that quantum mechanics represents: 1) Energy does not flow in an uninterrupted way, but in individual “bursts” (much like the neuron “fires”, in a burst, then requires a relative period of time to “recharge”.)  2) Particles of energy do not move in a routine manner; their movement is random and indiscriminate. 3) Paradoxically the basic particles of energy present themselves as both particle and wave forms. 4) The position and momentum of the energy particles can not be measured at the same time. It is impossible to get any accurate measurement of both simultaneously. 5) Basic particles of energy represent a “whole new world”, and are not explainable in terms of basic physics laws. And I might add a sixth representation: 6) Once observed, a particle of energy is forever changed, but not destroyed in the observation (no energy can be destroyed, nor does any energy exist beyond that which is already existing.) This last representation results from the belief of many that, unless a particle is observed (measured), there is no proof of its existence.  This makes sense, since everything consists of energy, and that for one energy system to exist, it must be acknowledged (observed) by another energy system—likes recognize likes. There must be an interaction between each for each to “know” of the other. Recent experiments and studies show that particles of energy exist positively, because there are particles of energy that exist negatively—providing logical proof of each.
When intelligence or consciousness are regarded, there must be immediate consideration given to the mind, since these are characteristics of this entity, but not necessarily the only characteristics. Over a long period of time, lacking appreciation for the non-materialistic aspects of the mind, incorrectly the human brain has been (and still is) credited with giving birth to it; that is, the brain is the locus of the mind; it originates there. However, recognizing that the brain is a materialistic organ consisting of its various structures—its architecture—it is illogical to think of it as giving origin to non-materialistic energy (of which quanta consist) that can be understood in materialistic terms.

Quantitative measurements do not explain qualitative concepts. This being so, the only conclusion that can be reached is that the non-materialistic energy (non-local) existing outside of consciousness is utilized by the brain; indeed, the non-materialistic energy of the quanta, “quantum ether” or “ocean of energy” uses the brain for its expression, but is not a product of the brain.  (Touted in:  Why Not Do God? Using Your Spiritual Dimension of Personality). This is tantamount to knowing that it is God’s Energy (nature’s energy) that is the “controlling” force, the controlling support system of all human and other existing entities, organic or non-organic. (See the schematic on The Shrink’s Theory—for a flow chart of this “controlling” force.) Hence, we can say that nature’s energy (the Creator’s energy)—intelligence/consciousness—is identical to human intelligence/consciousness since the former gives birth to the latter, or, more to the fact, the latter is an exact replicate of the former.  Such a logic tight arrangement provides answers to why, when a memory is retrieved, the action does nothing toward “weakening” the ability to retrieve that precise memory again and again. Computer users can appreciate this by recalling that when data is copied from one data storage medium to another, the data doesn’t disappear from the original, but remains to be available again and again. It would have to be erased or eradicated for it not to be retrievable. Further, the erasure or eradication must be carefully and completely accomplished for there not to be slight residuals which can be enhanced to represent the original data.

Regarding the billions of brain cells (neurons) that are sensitive to—reactive to—the  “hidden energy”, I consider that they are separate electro-chemical units, but “connected” with others across a synaptic gap, and once connected, the chemical action at the synaptic gap triggers or excites additional neurons to discharge along a given path, all to carry on the intent of a given stimuli. There are billions of neurons compacted in a small package of about three pounds of unique tissue, and there are trillions of synaptic gaps across which “messages” are sent to specific destinations, to accomplish specific results. Each time a neuron discharges its electrical energy, it immediately begins to recharge to accept the next message—all in a one direction manner; that is, the direction of the discharge is always one way, never reverses. Nor can a neuron accept another message until it is charged sufficiently to enable it to function. The short period of non-functionality is called the refractory phase, and its time length is relative to a variety of issues that are absent or present in the neuron. It is known to partially fire, but often ineffectually when under pressure to do so; however, it doesn’t respond during the refractory phase. Also, it has what is called an all or none characteristic—either it fires (being charged to do so) or it doesn’t. The recharging is basically a chemical process, which time to recharge is also relative to a variety of issues that are present at the level of the neuron (the cell.) That the neuron is electro-chemical in nature, it has further characteristics that are important—especially the electrical characteristic. It is known that when an electric current flows through a conductor, it causes a relative magnetic pressure that is outside the conductor, and which as relatively can be measured; also, the current itself gives out a pattern of energy that can be measured. This knowledge is useful in understanding the purpose of an electro-encephalogram and an electro-cardiogram (mostly muscle cell discharge patterns.)  In a sense, the magnetic field created during the “firing” of neurons is similar to sending radio waves through the electron particles in the atmosphere, but considerably less in strength, of course.  What is not commonly known is that the current flowing through a conductor can also be affected by a magnetic field created around the conductor—affected by what are called “chokes.” The purpose of the choke is to create an impedance to the electric current flowing in the conductor. The “choke effect” can have good and bad characteristics—good in that it is useful in controlling the electric current flow when necessary; bad in that the electro-magnetic field impedes the flow of electric current, thus lowering its effectiveness, being a form of unwanted resistance. Usually this is related to transferring electricity for home and industrial use over long distances. Electrical engineers have worked around this problem in a manner of ways, not germane to our purpose.

This “choke” effect has also been subject to a variety of uses in dealing with the materialistic brain. For instance, selective patients are treated with a high gauss magnetic field for depression. According to some reports, the effect is similar to the effect of  anti-depressant psychotropic drugs, but not as “effective” as electro-convulsive shock therapy, again not germane to our purpose. A long time ago, I suggested an electro magnetic field as a treatment for certain epileptic seizures. Generally, it is recognized that there is an awry electrical discharge in neurons that trigger the seizure (or are a result of the seizure?) My thinking is that if the “choke effect” (a magnetic field of relative high gauss) were instituted at the site of the awry electrical discharge, it would effectively impede it and effectively control it. I never got to the point of having my suggestion carried out; however, this too is not germane to our purpose. The purpose of including the above is simply to point out that there are aspects of the materialistic brain that are subject to various influences that are related to quantum physics—flow of energy, non-local power sources, etc.

Neurons, by their responding to and being influenced by externally applied electro-magnetic pressure, indicate their potential to be reactive to other than internal stimuli; indeed, indicate their nature to be reactive to the “hidden energy—the “ocean of energy”, quantum energy. That is, it appears that, not only are neurons “transmitters”, they are “receivers” and have the characteristic to react to what is received from other than internal stimuli, such as stimuli from different parts of the body. Also, there appears to be the characteristic of control over their reaction by means of their own impedance-providing physiology. This characteristic can be best understood by comparing it to a similar characteristic found in the out-of-date, simple three-part vacuum radio tube. Such a tube consists of three elements sustained in a (usually glass) high vacuum atmosphere—a filament that, by being heated to a high temperature, generates the release of electrons (negatively charged) from the glowing filament. These electrons are attracted to a positively charged plate that usually is placed above the filament. Ordinarily the electron flow would be unimpeded as long as the filament was discharging electrons; however, the third element situated in the tube, the grid, can be manipulated to be either positively or negatively charged, and according to the purpose the tube is serving in the overall radio circuits. This grid acts as a “control gate” allowing an increase in a flow of electrons, or disallowing it, all depending on its charge. If it is negatively charged, it acts as an impedance to the flow of negatively charged electrons from the filament by blocking them, thus slowing the flow (likes repel likes); if it is positively charged (unlike attracts) it acts as an impetus to the flow of electrons, speeding it and possibly increasing the number of electrons that “burn” off the heated filament. The functionality of the tube as arranged in this manner allows control over the electron flow, much as a magnetic field impedes the electron flow in an electrical conductor, slowing it but not preventing it.. The principle is the same.

 One can ask, “If the nonmaterial, inner mind or ‘soul’ governs the material universe (which would include the brain, of course), is there a foci related to its action in a sentient human’s brain? Is there a neural connection or ‘gate’ that opens to this nonmaterial energy?”  This is a difficult question to answer, since much is yet to be done to establish where, or if, such a foci exists or can be located.   There are opinions, though, and as you would expect different. This difference in opinion would be expected, however, since the issue of mind, intelligence/consciousness, and other non-materialistic concepts are just now getting more attention. Materialism, with its roots in the scientific approach, isn’t an easy door to break down. Those who think of consciousness (mind) as only a by-product of the brain tend to ignore quantum physics as non-relevant to understanding non-material ideas. Hard-core scientists (orthodox) believe that mental states are identical with brain states, and that all thoughts, feelings and our sense of identity (self) result from, or are generated from, electrochemical activity in the brain; yet, they have no real answer regarding what thoughts, feelings, and ideas of self are. I think of it as compulsive prattle. Often, one sees an old idea embellished in new window dressings, with the claim that the “new” approach is a break through in understanding the mind. However, examination of the “new” discloses the same blank walls that were (and have been for years) present before, stopping real answers to questions non-material issues present.  I guess it is too difficult to shed the shroud of orthodox scientific objectivity in trying to understand concepts that don’t fit the rules set down by orthodox science. Carl G. Jung said that a synthesis of matter and spirit, conscious and unconscious, bright and dark, and so on will not happen in the realm of present science. He said it would come about in a different science or field, the nature of which is still to be determined.

Not intending to delve into the results of thinking by a bevy of  scientists (not germane to our purpose), I’ll relate some of the thinking in brief passing. For instance, one scientist believes that consciousness arises from quantum coherence in microtubules within the brain’s neurons. Others see a connection between consciousness and quantum energy, saying that neural structures act as a go-between consciousness and this quantum energy; however, no definitive structures are mentioned. One believes that consciousness is a pack of neurons, and is probably located in or near a part of cerebral cortex  known as the anterior cingulate sulcus, but there is no sure evidence of this. Another believes that the “entry point” of quantum energy and having much to do with mind, consciousness and intelligence is a bundle of neurons located in the right temporal lobe, just above the ear. One believes that consciousness is “based” in the brain stem. Still another believes the answer to the question of what the mind is has to be accomplished by dualist interactionism; there is a mental world in addition to there being a material world, and that our mind or self acts on the brain (particularly on the supplementary motor area of the neocortex) at the quantum level by increasing the probability of  select neurons firing. This is pretty complicated, but does have a ring to it when considering the radio vacuum tube I described—enhancing the flow of electrons from the hot filament to the plate by increasing the negative charge on the grid. However you view it, it comes down to energy particles, and some in the quantum area, the indivisible particles described as quanta.

The late world renown neurologist, Dr. Wilder Penfield mapped the brain’s physiology during the numerous surgeries he performed on it. He reported that probing in the area of the right temporal lobe triggered a bevy of memories (more like actual “being-there” engrams). Visions of earlier activities, of relatives and friends who died, even God were experienced by some of his patients resulting from his probing in the temporal lobe area. Of course, you’ll get an immediate response from hard-line scientists that, because probing this area brought such results, it is proof that spirituality, even the soul, is hardwired in the brain, that we are born with this, and that it has nothing to do with non-local energy. I don’t think so.

All this appears to lead me to conclude that we are still in the dark regarding the true connection between quantum energy and the material world. I do remember I said that one of the ideas presented by quantum mechanics was that “it is like nothing in this world.” It isn’t difficult to say it again. In order to understand mind, intelligence/consciousness, it is my believe that we must factor in quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics gives us the only understanding of non-material concepts; and it still remains that the mind, consciousness and intelligence are non-material concepts needing quantum mechanics to give us a leg up in understanding them.

Notwithstanding that we still need to understand non-material concepts, quantum mechanics and intelligence/consciousness—the mind, it doesn’t detract from our accepting what is before our very nose; and that is that nature’s (the Creator’s) intelligence/consciousness and humankind’s intelligence/intelligence are identical. Breaking down the materialistic realm to the quanta realm brings us to the indivisible particles that are called quanta, and brings us face to face with the quantum world—a world that is quite different from the one in which we live, however absolutely essential for our existence. How many feel all this is blather?  How many feel that there’s no relationship between the world of quanta and the world of materialism? Log onto my e-mail address and tell me your feelings. Be my guest.