Description

A human brain operates as a pattern of switching. An abstract definition
of a quantum mechanical switch is given which allows for the continual random
fluctuations in the warm wet environment of the brain. Among several switch-like
entities in the brain, we choose to focus on the sodium channel proteins. After explaining
what these are, we analyse the ways in which our definition of a quantum switch
can be satisfied by portions of such proteins. We calculate the perturbing effects of
normal variations in temperature and electric field on the quantum state of such a
portion. These are shown to be acceptable within the fluctuations allowed for by our
definition. Information processing and unpredictability in the brain are discussed.
The ultimate goal underlying the paper is an analysis of quantum measurement theory
based on an abstract definition of the physical manifestations of consciousness.
The paper is written for physicists with no prior knowledge of neurophysiology, but
enough introductory material has also been included to allow neurophysiologists with
no prior knowledge of quantum mechanics to follow the central arguments.