Quantum Information Processing in Human Cognition: Bridging Quantum Phenomena, Neural Dynamics, and Decision-Making

Abstract

Recent advances at the intersection of quantum physics, neuroscience, and cognitive science have renewed interest in whether quantum phenomena and quantum-inspired formalisms can inform models of human cognition and decision-making. While classical neural and computational models explain many aspects of perception and behavior, they face limitations in accounting for contextuality, order effects, probabilistic reasoning violations, ambiguity resolution, and rapid information integration. This review synthesizes evidence and theoretical frameworks linking quantum-related principles to cognition, with emphasis on quantum sensing in biological systems, molecular and subcellular quantum-relevant mechanisms, quantum-to-classical transition pathways, quantum-inspired models of perception and decision-making, and quantum-inspired computational approaches. It also extends beyond the probabilistic arm of quantum cognition by considering emerging equilibrium-based and causal-logical theories, including mental equilibrium, brain-universe similarity, mind-light-matter unity, quantum emergence, and quantum intelligence. Throughout, the review distinguishes physically instantiated quantum mechanisms from abstract quantum-like formalisms that model contextuality, mental entanglement, and non-separable cognitive dynamics without requiring sustained macroscopic quantum coherence in the brain. Finally, it identifies methodological challenges and future directions for advancing quantum cognitive science toward experimentally testable and biologically meaningful theories. © 2026 The Author(s). Advanced Quantum Technologies published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.