While many scientists and philosophers believe that life appeared on Earth around 3.8 billion years ago and that consciousness evolved later through complex biological information processing processes, possibly in brains capable of language and tool-making, things get interesting here. A theory proposed by other scientists suggests that “consciousness was given by an unknown force before we were born,” stirring controversy. But did our consciousness exist before we were born? Let’s delve into this theory…
Was consciousness given before we were born? The theory that’s puzzling scientists
Scientists like astrobiologist Stuart Hameroff, materials scientist Anirban Bandyopadhyay, and planetary scientist Dante Lauretta argue that the phenomenon of consciousness arrived before birth (life), making life and evolution possible. This theory is based on the Orch OR theory developed by Hameroff in collaboration with physicist and philosopher Roger Penrose.
Essentially, it argues that a quantum particle (such as an electron) does not have a specific characteristic until it is observed. This moment of observation is known as the collapse of quantum superpositions into definite states, and Penrose claims this collapse generates consciousness. According to Penrose, this process is incalculable, beyond the algorithmic and computable nature of classical physics, suggesting the presence of an unknown force.
These scientists start from the theory that consciousness is not a product of evolution but that evolution is a product of consciousness. How could this be possible? The researchers theorize that in the early universe, amphipathic molecules formed micelles. These micelles, over time, evolved into biological “proto-cells” that developed survival behaviors.
Why and how did these behaviors develop? Here, the role of consciousness comes into play. The team suggests that some elements could generate random, unconnected proto-conscious moments. These moments, functioning as a primitive pleasure mechanism, could lead to the organization of aromatic rings within micelles.
To support the theory that the phenomenon of consciousness arrived before birth, scientists plan to study the Murchison meteorite and early-period asteroids, aiming to search for signs of life, such as quantum optical superposition effects. If these signs are found, they could be considered processes that might form the roots of consciousness.
This bold hypothesis contends that evolution did not create consciousness; instead, consciousness shaped evolution. This theory seems likely to puzzle Darwinian materialists. Yet, many defend the Penrose OR theory as testable, profound, and logical.
Could the “unknown force” mentioned by scientists be God? This theory is likely to spark significant debate in the scientific community about the phenomenon of consciousness and the belief in God. This theory suits those who believe that consciousness, not evolution, came first. You can access the details of the article here. What do you think? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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