The Rise of Quantum Computing
Technological Applications, Ethical Challenges, and Prospects for the Extended Mind Thesis
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 12954106 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Mirko Farina (0000-0001-8342-6549, Jimei University, corresponding author), Xiaojun Ding (0000-0001-6951-3785, Xi'an Jiaotong University), Xiao Yu (0000-0002-0964-756X, Jimei University), Andrea Lavazza (0000-0003-2608-2609, Pegaso University) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 20 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Publication date | 2026-03-12 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | NanoEthics (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1871-4757 • E-ISSN: 1871-4765 |
| Publisher | Springer Science+Business Media (PUBLISHER • DE) |
| DOI | 10.1007/s11569-026-00502-6 |
| OpenAlex | W7135098139 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 140 |
In Section “Introduction” we introduce the concept of quantum computing [QC]; in essence, the attempt to solve very complex computational problems characterized by numerous variables interacting simultaneously by using quantum mechanical effects (such as superposition and quantum interference). In Section “Applications of QC”, we summarise some applications of QC developed to date and discuss some of the benefits that this technology may bring about for individuals and society. In Section “Ethical Issues underlying QC”, we evaluate some of the downsides (or ethical challenges) arising from the possible wide-scale implementation of this technology. We claim that QC poses utterly new ethical challenges that will likely require novel conceptual tools and methods to be fully and properly tackled. However, we note that QC is not only crucial for the challenges it poses to ethics but also because it affords unique opportunities for enhancing our cognitive abilities and therefore for improving our cognitive profiles. Thus, in Section “QC and the Extended Mind Thesis”, we explore possible points of contact between QC and the extended mind thesis [EMT]. We argue that QC can provide solid evidence to validate some of the claims underlying EMT. Finally, we wrap up the paper (Section “Conclusion”) by summarising what we have achieved and by pointing out possible future research directions
Cognition · Philosophy of mind · Philosophy of science · Philosophy of technology · Quantum · Section (typography · Thought experiment · Embodied and Extended Cognition · Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs · Quantum Mechanics and Applications
Reconstructing the Cognitive World
Technology and the Virtues
The New Science of the Mind
The bounds of cognition
Minds
Neuromorphic Computing and Extended Memory
Smart Environments
Prominence of corporate science in quantum computing research
AI and society
Value Sensitive Design and Information Systems
Philosophy, Expertise, and the Myth of Neutrality
Ethics of Quantum Computing
Thinking in the Cloud
Why There Are Still Moral Reasons to Prefer Extended over Embedded
Incorporation, Transparency and Cognitive Extension
The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
Neuralink’s brain-computer interfaces
Analysis of the likelihood of quantum computing proliferation
Leveraging autonomous weapon systems
Mind embedded or extended
The ‘NeuroGate’
The Pricing of Options and Corporate Liabilities
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |