In a mathematical description of the world, the conventional notion of free will disappears, yet the sensation of making independent choices remains, according to physics professor Vitaly Vanchurin. The author of a hypothesis that posits the Universe as a learning neural network attributes this to the inherent unpredictability of complex systems.
He explains that a human being must be part of an overarching model and subject to its laws. However, the element of randomness in the system’s evolution makes it impossible to precisely determine its future—a fact that gives rise to the feeling of having a choice.
“It is impossible to predict exactly where the system will head; there is an element of randomness in its dynamics. This is why it feels as though a choice has been made,” the scientist explained in an interview with Gazeta.ru.
Previously, researchers discovered a link between mental arithmetic and changes in pupil size. In an experiment involving 80 volunteers, the reaction of their eyes varied depending on the complexity of the task and whether the participants recited the numbers aloud or kept them to themselves.
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