The Silence Experiment: A Multi-State Protocol for Detecting Consciousness-Dependent Decoherence in Shielded Environments

A controlled experimental protocol for testing the von Neumann–Wigner (VNW) interpretation of quantum mechanics — the hypothesis that consciousness plays a role in quantum state reduction — against the prevailing environmental decoherence framework (Zurek, Zeh, Joos). The experimental platform places a single experienced meditator in EEG-verified cognitive states inside a shielded environment. A quantum coherence sensor measures decoherence rates (T₂) across seven consciousness conditions (C1–C7) spanning the full cognitive-excitation axis, against a separate empty-chamber instrumental baseline. The primary pre-registered hypothesis is that T₂ at C7 (Cessation / Objectless Awareness) and T₂ at C6 (Minimal Phenomenal Experience) will both exceed T₂ at the chamber baseline and at conditions C1–C5, and that T₂ at C7 will further exceed T₂ at C6. This is tested via two pre-registered orthogonal planned contrasts: (i) [C6, C7] vs. [baseline, C1–C5], and (ii) C7 vs. C6, both with directional predictions. All other cross-condition comparisons are treated as exploratory. A secondary experiment uses quantum random number generators with improved shielding, blinding, and instrumentation. The protocol is phased: a Phase 0 foundational test using nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, and a Phase 1 full protocol using superconducting qubits in an underground laboratory, conditional on Phase 0 results and adoption by an institutional host. The protocol employs blinding when feasible and pre-registered statistical thresholds. Null results establish pre-registered upper bounds; positive results require replication. The theoretical basis for this protocol is detailed in the companion paper, The Silence Paradigm.