Observer Influence on Quantum Interference: Testing the von Neumann-Wigner Consciousness-Collapse Theory

The von Neumann–Wigner consciousness-collapse interpretation of quantum mechanics was explored by testing if human observation of interference in an optical interferometer might act like a weak quantum measurement effect. Forty-seven participants selected via a worldwide search for individuals with experience in focusing their attention were each provided with a custom-made optical apparatus. Using this device, they ran a preassigned series of test sessions to see if illumination recorded in a portion of the interference pattern would be affected when a feedback signal based on that measure was observed versus unobserved. Another portion of the interference pattern was recorded simultaneously but never observed to provide control data. Environmental sensors and real-time encryption of the illumination data were among the methods included in the design of the experiment to help ensure data integrity. With all data combined the results did not support three preregistered hypotheses, but for one of those hypotheses participants selected for experience in an outward versus an inward focus of attention achieved significantly better results in reducing interference (p ¼ 0.008). An exploratory analysis found a progressive decline in interference while participants observed a portion of the interference pattern, as compared to data recorded simultaneously from an unobserved portion (p ¼ 5.9  1014). By comparison, applying the same analysis during no-observation periods found no differences in trends (p ¼ 0.77). Control data run with no observers present and subjected again to this same trend analysis showed uniformly nonsignificant results. Alternative explanations, including possible environmental influences that might have caused these outcomes, as well as recommendations for future studies, are discussed.