ULTIMATE COMPUTING - Quantum Consciousness Studies

10 Toward Ultimate Computing
these systems “cellular automata.” Von Neumann described a “universal
computer” automaton which could solve any problem if given sufficient area and
time. Today, computer technologists are considering the profound advantages of
implementing molecular scale automata (Milch, 1986).
Edward Fredkin of Massachusetts Institute of Technology has considered
multidimensional automata and the discreteness of time and matter. He argues
that the universe is a cellular automaton whose “cells” are atomic and subatomic
particles (Wright, 1985). The universe is made of information, Fredkin reasons.
Cellular automata may be generalized “primordial computers” of which all other
computers and complex systems are particular examples. Cellular automata in
conformational states of cytoskeletal subunits could process biological
information and be the substrate of consciousness.
The current trend in computer design and artificial intelligence or “AI” is
parallel connectedness, emulating the brain. Many types of problems can be
solved by breaking them down into serial mathematical steps. Today’s electronic
computers serially process very rapidly and can solve complex mathematical
problems far faster than can humans alone. However qualitative functions which
the brain performs naturally-recognizing patterns, or making judgments-are
extremely difficult for computers. Consider the letter “a.” We recognize it
automatically, in any typeface, in all but the worst handwriting. To our brains it’s
simple, quick, obvious even if it’s missing. If we see, “Sally ‘red’ a newspaper,”
we mentally insert the absent “a.” Computer/Al scientist Jerome Feldman (1985)
cites the example of interpreting the statement “John threw a ball for charity.”
The inherent ambiguities of this type of statement can be resolved in a highly
parallel system in which multiple simultaneous interpretations are processed and
evaluated. Hurling a sphere versus hosting a dance can be resolved by the
qualifier “for charity” which is much more consistent with a dance than with a
sphere. Human brains commonly resolve conflicts among differing drives or
input, although failure to do so may cause psychiatric or emotional problems. At
least according to science fiction, computers can suffer similar disturbances. In
Arthur C. Clarke’s and Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: Space Odyssey and its sequel
2010, the computer “Hal 9000” becomes psychotic because of conflicting
instructions and reacts by killing the space voyagers because their mission was
too important to be entrusted to them. The brain/mind can perform “cognitive”
functions including resolution of conflict by “subcognitive” processes such as
recognizing patterns, making assumptions and performing imaginative leaps. The
net effect is consciousness: a collective effect of simpler processes.
1.3 Collective Intelligence
A collective phenomenon is more the product of, rather than the sum of, its
parts, and has been explained by Cal Tech biophysicist John Hopfield (1982)
whose “neural net” models are collective.
Suppose you put two molecules in a box, every once in a while they
collide and that’s an exciting event. ... If we’d put ten or even a
thousand more molecules in the box all we’d get is more collisions.
But if we put a billion billion molecules in the box, there is a new
phenomenon-sound waves.