The relationship between how our brains create thoughts and memories and quantum computation is a topic of ongoing research and debate. While there are some conceptual similarities, it's important to note that our current understanding of the brain and quantum computation is still limited, and any parallels drawn between them should be considered speculative. Nonetheless, here are a few points of similarity that have been proposed:
Superposition and Parallel Processing: Quantum computation utilizes the concept of superposition, where quantum bits (qubits) can exist in multiple states simultaneously. Similarly, the brain is thought to operate in a highly parallel and distributed manner, with many neurons and neural networks simultaneously processing and representing information. This parallelism and the potential for multiple coexisting states in both systems could be seen as a loose similarity.
Entanglement and Network Connectivity: Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon in which the states of multiple particles become correlated in such a way that the state of one particle cannot be described independently of the others. In the brain, connectivity between neurons and the formation of neural networks could be loosely compared to entanglement, as information processing and memory formation likely involve complex patterns of interconnected neural activity.
Non-locality and Emergent Properties: Quantum mechanics allows for non-local effects, where particles can be instantaneously correlated across large distances. In the brain, it has been proposed that the coordinated activity of distributed neuronal populations could give rise to emergent properties, such as consciousness and integrated information processing, which might have non-local aspects.
However, it's essential to emphasize that the brain is a complex biological system, while quantum computation operates at the quantum level of physical phenomena. The brain's functioning involves a myriad of factors, including biochemical processes, neural networks, and classical physics. Quantum computation, on the other hand, relies on manipulating quantum states and exploiting quantum effects to perform certain computational tasks efficiently.
At present, there is no definitive evidence supporting the notion that quantum computation plays a significant role in how our brains create thoughts and memories. While the field of quantum neuroscience explores potential connections between quantum mechanics and brain function, it remains a highly speculative and exploratory area of research.