Linking Physics and Psychology of Bistable Perception Using an Eye Blink
  Inspired Quantum Harmonic Oscillator Model
Ivan S. Maksymov Ganna Pogrebna
This paper introduces a novel quantum-mechanical model that describes
psychological phenomena using the analogy of a harmonic oscillator represented
by an electron trapped in a potential well. Study~1 demonstrates the
application of the proposed model to bistable perception of ambiguous figures
(i.e., optical illusions), exemplified by the Necker cube. While prior research
has theoretically linked quantum mechanics to psychological phenomena, in
Study~2 we demonstrate a viable physiological connection between physics and
bistable perception. To that end, the model draws parallels between quantum
tunneling of an electron through a potential energy barrier and an eye blink,
an action known to trigger perceptual reversals. Finally, we discuss the
ability of the model to capture diverse optical illusions and other
psychological phenomena, including cognitive dissonance.