ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a historical overview of the development and application of quantum physics methodology to various fields of science beyond physics, especially biology and consciousness. In recent years, individual biological phenomena such as photosynthesis and bird navigation have been experimentally and theoretically analysed using quantum methods, building conceptual foundations for quantum biology. Quantum concepts have also been employed to explain the allometric scaling laws of physiology (how processes scale with body size and with each other) by introducing quantum metabolism. Several proposals, especially the Orch OR hypothesis, have been put forth in an effort to introduce a scientific basis to the theory of consciousness. The merits and potential extensions of these approaches are discussed.
