The Quantum Model: Using Design Thinking in bridging Eastern & Western belief systems (1)

SAN JOSE, Calif. - July 27, 2016 - PRLog -- The very idea of a quantum self is a freshly innovative model of the self being derived from the very characteristics of the new science, specifically those related to quantum physics. This new model of self I believe can transcend the divide between the classic Western and Eastern models and can underpin a new theory of organization and entrepreneurial leadership. This model will be discussed in a series of 3 articles.

The nature of human consciousness and human creativity is at the cutting edge of scientific inquiry in contemporary times. A big number of mainstream cognitive scientists still have faith in the fact that both the worlds will ultimately be explained in mechanistic terms. It seems to them as if we have a mind machine inside our heads. One day we will have or it seems so computing machines that can do anything we do probably much faster, much better. They feel that mind in fact is not machine like and they look for origins of consciousness and creative juices that flow in brain not described by Newton's physics.

There is a general belief that these more creative mental processes are quantum in origin, that quantum physics literally makes possible the characteristics of the human self, based on human emotional ontology spanning grief, humour, relationship, creativity, a sense of meaning, understanding, free will, commitment, loyalty et all.

Though we back quantum theories of mind, they are still speculative in nature and we need not wait for any scientific evidence to come in. However the emphasis is to find a new conceptual structure for organizations. Quantum physics provides radical new ways to think about the problems and opportunities confronting organizations and their need for new infrastructures. There is an uncanny similarity between quantum events and our more creative mental events as we believe that human consciousness and creativity do behave like processes described by this new science.

We see two diametrically opposite models of the self and its effect on the organization. The particle model or one aligned to western management theory is generously based on Newtonian science, which is atomistic, determined in its behaviour, fragmented into separate parts, circumscribed by rigid boundaries and isolated from its environment.

The eastern wave model of the self, lying at the heart of networked Asian organizations is modelled on the complex patterns made by countless intersecting waves. Like the waves, the networked self is seen to be essentially relational and contextual.

In the brain we have seen logical serial thinking and networked and parallel thinking are integrated through a 3^rd kind of neural function – i.e. synchronous neural oscillations binding different parts of the brain. This provides us with intuitive, insightful, creative thinking, the kind of thinking which compels us to challenge our basic assumptions and change our mental models. This kind of thinking will enable us to rewire our brains as it provide us with spiritual intelligence, our intelligence rooted in meaning, vision and value.

This 3^rd type of thinking is referred to as quantum thinking because of its similarity to quantum processes. The central features of such processes help to discover features of the quantum self. The tenets of design thinking will help us organise and lead quantum selves in a quantum organization. The challenge is before us to enable or not. This article will be continued in the next part of this column...read further https://centerofexcellencedesignthinking.wordpress.com/2016/07/27/column-human-centric-and-customer-centric-design-thinking-3/

Raja Roy Choudhury, Ph.D. & Hubert Rampersad, Ph.D.
Raja Roy Choudhury is professor in Design Thinking & Hon. Director of the Center of Excellence in Design Thinking at Innovation University of Silicon Valley. He is also associated with S P Jain School of Global Management and can be contacted via r.royc@iusv.university. Hubert Rampersad is President of Innovation University of Silicon Valley. www.iusv.university| info@iusv.university