We don't know how brains work.
Can human brain functioning be modeled purely on the basis of classical Newtonian physics?
Cooper Lewis
Nathan Campbell
Are you referencing how microtubule assembly involves quantum entanglement?
Wyatt Hill
There is an entire field of study called biophysics...
Aaron Rodriguez
What?
Joseph Martinez
That's my understanding.
See what Penrose has to say for himself. nautil.us
Then there's theatlantic.com
Chase Stewart
If you can simulate a neuron with a macrocscopic, newtonian device, and then you can (hypothetically) simulate a human brain with these newtonian neurons, then quantum effects are purely circumstantial and have nothing to do with the actual functionality of the brain itself.
Of course a human brain doesn't work without quantum due to the fact that it's built using self-replicating naonmachinery, but I don't think that's what OP is asking.
Dominic Bell
We don't know much about the specifics, but we have a solid understanding of the basic principles and the general layout.
It's a complex, intricate structure to unravel and analyze but we can still make rather confident statements about it even without perfectly understanding the whole. Sort of how you can make pretty accurate guesses regarding the general capabilities of a CPU chip without having perfect understanding of the specific architecture down to every last transistor.
Leo Russell
I entirely agree with you. Newtonian is sufficient.
Just pointed out that not EVERYBODY agrees with us. Hardly any neuroscientists think quantum effects are essential to consciousness -- it's just that Penrose IS brilliant and we can't (yet) prove he's wrong, so the door remains open.
Elijah Baker
Neuroscientists better get a move on, then, because I'm tired of the endless barrage of pop sci garbage jacking off about quantum consciousness and whatnot
Angel Sullivan
And the first task assigned to the newly-developed AIs should be moderating Veeky Forums to kick off the trolls and know-nothings (but only those who are happy knowing nothing. The genuinely curious can stay.)