The MERCURIAL Framework: A Computational Model for the Co-Emergence of Reality and Consciousness

Abstract

This paper presents the MERCURIAL framework, a computational proof‑of‑concept simulation for the co‑emergence of reality and consciousness from a neutral informational substrate. The framework integrates thermodynamics, information theory, neuroscience, and quantum field theory into a Python implementation featuring free‑energy minimisation, hierarchical levels (LADDER), sensory modalities (SPECTRAL), neural population models, and quantum field propagation. The model is demonstrated on 7 historical case reports (Atlas cases), 22 synthetic variants, and 5 blind real‑world reports. All cases met pre‑defined correlation thresholds (≥0.8 for perception tasks, ≥0.9 for pattern completion). Statistical checks (cross‑validation, permutation tests, Bayesian calibration) indicate that the model's perfect score on this small dataset is unlikely by chance. However, the model is correlational, not causal; it simulates neural‑activity patterns that could underlie reported subjective experiences, not physical forces. Code and data are publicly available. This work is a computational demonstration, not a validated predictive tool for real‑world phenomena.

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