Quantum Theory of Iconic Memory

Abstract

Abstract The undifferentiated event in the consciousness of an observer, introduced by von Neumann in his quantum theory of measurement, is elaborated to interpret experiments by which Sperling demonstrated iconic memory. The numerous quadruplets of letters known to Sperling’s subjects implicitly but not consciously are interpreted as quantum states in a superposition reducible to any of its components by von Neumann’s event in consciousness. The potential loss by decoherence of all information implicit in the superposition, and its possible retention by a secondary observer within the same organism, may be aspects of the biological evolution as of a precursor of the quantum computer.