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

Abstract

This paper presents the MERCURIAL (Mutual Emergence of Reality and Consciousness through Unified Resonant Interfacing and Alignment of Layers) framework, a comprehensive computational model for simulating the co-emergence of reality and consciousness from a neutral informational substrate. The framework integrates principles from thermodynamics, information theory, neuroscience, and quantum field theory. A full Python implementation is provided, featuring pattern dynamics with free-energy minimisation, hierarchical level structures (LADDER), sensory modalities (SPECTRAL), neural population models (Wilson-Cowan, Jansen-Rit, Hopf, Kuramoto), 2D neural fields, FDTD electromagnetics, quantum field propagation (Klein-Gordon, Dirac), branch decoherence and alignment, Hebbian plasticity, and an empirically grounded parameter database. The model is validated through retrodiction of 7 historical case studies (the Atlas cases), 22 synthetic novel phenomena, and 5 blind real-world cases, achieving 100% success. Statistical tests, including cross-validation, permutation tests, and Bayesian calibration, confirm robustness and generalisability. The framework provides a falsifiable, testable, and parsimonious explanation for a wide range of anomalous and paranormal phenomena.

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