Abstract

It has been claimed that quantum mechanics, unlike classical mechanics, allows for free will. In this paper I articulate that claim and explain how a complex physical system possessing fractal-like self similarity could exhibit both self consciousness and self determination. I use complexity theory to show how quantum mechanical indeterminacies at the neural level (as postulated by Eccles and Penrose) could "percolate up" to the levels of scale within the brain at which sensory-motor information transformations occur. Finally, I explain how macro level indeterminacy could be coupled with self determination to provide a physical system with the capacity for radically free willing.

Comments

Pestana, M. (2001). Complexity theory, quantum mechanics and radically free self determination. Journal of Mind and Behavior, 22(4), 365-387.

http://www.umaine.edu/jmb/

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