- The work focuses on the measurement independence assumption in quantum setups, a key concept in studying quantum entanglement.
- Tests are based on Bell’s theorem, which explores if particles can show correlations not explained by classical physics.
- Experts agree that the link between quantum mechanics and free will depends on the definition of free will itself, which remains disputed.
- Findings suggest that even partial human choice may be enough to dismiss simple explanations and call for deeper exploration.
Researchers are advancing new quantum experiments designed to test whether human choices are truly independent or determined by hidden aspects of physics. The experiments are being developed in an effort to close in on the age-old question of whether free will really exists.
The teams aim to investigate the “measurement independence assumption,” a principle that supposes experimenters’ choices are not affected by hidden variables. If proven false, this would suggest that external factors influence decision-making, according to a recent report in New Scientist.
Tests use Bell’s theorem—a concept introduced in 1964 by physicist John Bell—that helps determine if entangled particles have behaviors that classical physics can’t explain. In quantum entanglement, particles appear to coordinate their states instantly, no matter how far apart they are.
Adan Cabello, a professor at the University of Seville, noted that many religions rely on partial free will to resolve philosophical paradoxes. “But if partial free will is not possible, neither is this resolution,” Cabello wrote in the report.
In the experiments, scientists adjusted the assumption of complete independence, instead allowing for the idea of only partial freedom in choosing measurement settings. This was meant to test if the correlations seen in quantum mechanics are truly fundamental or the result of undiscovered links.
Quantum computers rely on entanglement, which connects qubits (quantum bits) such that the state of one instantly determines the state of another. This property enables simultaneous processing of complex problems.
Eddy Chen, professor of philosophy at the University of California at San Diego, explained that debates about quantum mechanics and free will depend on the definition of free will. “Even those who’ve studied this for years struggle to define it, and seemingly clear definitions remain controversial,” Chen told Decrypt.
Chen also pointed out that while scientific methods can clarify questions with strict definitions, philosophical ideas like free will are harder to resolve through experiments alone. Assumptions about free will and randomness are open to scrutiny.
The study’s approach broadens Bell’s original theorem. Even with only partial free will, researchers say Bell’s results still hold. “They’re not saying we lack free will. Even if someone has only partial free will, the theorem still applies,” Chen said.
Answers to what might control the other part of human choice, if free will is partial, would require new physical theories—ones that explain not just known physics but also distant, hidden connections. Until such theories exist, current results imply that simple, local models cannot fully explain quantum behavior.
Experts conclude that the mystery may not be whether free will exists, but rather how much of it humans truly possess.
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