Applied Neurophysics A 21st Century Science of the Mind (8 Hour Workshop) T. F. Collura 7/16/06.pdf

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1. Overview #

Applied Neurophysics is presented as an emerging interdisciplinary science integrating physics, neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, information theory, and systems theory to develop a unified understanding of the mind–brain system. It aims to move beyond traditional psychophysics to include concepts such as consciousness, awareness, intention, and free will.

2. Purpose & Scope of the Discipline #

The workshop frames neurophysics as a future discipline comparable to genetics—initially broad and fragmented but becoming increasingly integrated. Its mission includes:

• Studying EEG phenomena, binding rhythms, hemispheric differences, and brain activation.

• Integrating classical and modern physics—including quantum theory and multidimensional models—into explanations of mental phenomena.

• Addressing foundational questions about consciousness: its nature, measurement, physical basis, and relationship to free will.

3. Key Concepts in Applied Neurophysics #

3.1 Interdisciplinary Foundations #

The material draws from:

• Theoretical physics & information theory

• Neuroscience, neurophysiology, and brain rhythms

• Philosophy of mind

• Cognitive science and behavior

• Systems theory and self-organization

3.2 Consciousness as a Physical Phenomenon #

Neurophysics considers consciousness as part of physics itself—potentially a multidimensional or field-like process influenced by electrical, electrotonic, and chemical brain systems.

3.3 Critical Questions Driving the Field #

The workshop lists dozens of questions, including:

• What makes a system conscious?

• Can consciousness be quantified?

• Can EEG measure aspects of consciousness?

• What is the role of volition and intention in neural processes?

• Does quantum physics influence consciousness?

• Can consciousness be shared?

• What mechanisms might explain psi phenomena (if they exist)?

These questions collectively define the investigative territory of neurophysics.

4. Structure of the Workshop Content #

4.1 Foundations (2 Hours) #

Topics include:

• Philosophy of science

• Physical reductionism vs. emergent properties

• The three “brains”: electrical, electrotonic, chemical

• Brain rhythms, inhibition, glial roles, and synchrony

• Self-organizing principles in brain activity

4.2 Structure and Function of the Brain (2 Hours) #

Key themes:

• Reticular activating system

• Visual perception and information filtering

• Language as an information-processing mechanism

• Temporal binding and DC potentials

• Hierarchy of brain function: microthoughts → megathoughts

• Automatic vs. deliberate behavior

4.3 Brain, Reality, and Perception (2 Hours) #

Includes classic thought experiments and conceptual problems:

• Brain-in-a-vat

• Transporter & identity problem

• Chinese Room

• Free will paradoxes

• Holographic principles and multidimensional models

• Role of classification, language, and subjective experience

• Psi and subtle energy considerations (conceptual, not empirical claims)

4.4 The Brain in the Universe (2 Hours) #

Explores higher-level questions:

• Universals and cultural interpretation

• Determinism vs. free will

• Consciousness in artificial systems

• Quantum physics and psi

• Neurofeedback as a promising direction (alpha coherence, gamma synchrony, alpha/theta)

• Shared consciousness and planetary consciousness theories

5. Educational Components #

The workshop ends with quiz questions assessing knowledge about:

• Lateral inhibition

• Vision range

• Glial–neuron ratios

• Glial functions

• Information processing rules

• Free will constraints

• The role of language in science