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Quasi-Quantum Computing in the Brain?

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Abstract

Quantum computing has been seen as a potentially powerful computing method, and consequently some researchers have argued that the brain might somehow utilize quantum computing processes. In the laboratory, quantum computing calls for exotic conditions, and it has been argued that the brain cannot provide these. Here, a novel computing method, quasi-quantum computing, is presented. This method utilizes the main principles of quantum computing: superposition, entanglement and collapse, but in this case, computing is not based on quantum processes; instead, it is realized by utilizing conventional electronic devices in rather unconventional ways. As an example of the potential of this approach, the reverse computing of mathematical functions is considered, and an experimental test device is reported. Some aspects of this approach may be used by the brain as no exotic conditions are required. However, further research would be required.

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Acknowledgment

The author wishes to thank Mr. Dylan Drummond for his kind suggestions about the text.

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Correspondence to Pentti O. A. Haikonen.

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Haikonen, P.O.A. Quasi-Quantum Computing in the Brain?. Cogn Comput 2, 63–67 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12559-010-9032-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12559-010-9032-9

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