The article deals with the “Quantum mind” hypothesis which has been elaborated in recent works of Alexander Wendt. It is ultimately signi cant to analyze this hypothesis and to expand on its dif- culties and possible inconsistencies given Wendt’s credentials in IR theorizing. It allows us to develop a new approach and promising research program on the basis of the hypothesis and its critical re ection.
Wendt’s quantum physicalism (or holism) implies serious philosophical injury and outstanding usage of di erent science disciplines’ apparatus including physics, biology, and psychology. Thought-provoking approach of Wendt boosts researching e orts within the eld of political philosophy, world politics and international relations. The main feature of the hypothesis is the idea of quantum nature in social and political processes which appears to be the consequence of epistemological authority of current science.
Alexander Wendt proposes several explanations for quantum foundations within the political and social processes including wide-known “agent-structure” dilemma. According to him, invisibility of social structures does not lead to denial of its existence. Firstly, social structures emerge from the space of pos- sibilities and are not directly dependant on material factors. Secondly, invisibility and its acceptance in di erent areas are parts of science clari cation in many areas including quantum physics.
The article discuses how quantum physics principles such as particle-wave dualism, superposition and size absoluteness can be useful in social and political studies. This allows us to demonstrate the given hypo- thesi’ potential in research eld of social sciences with regard to international relations and world politics.
Key words: “Quantum mind”, Alexander Wendt, quantum physicalism, holism, emergentism.
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