Are Strategies in Superposition? Testing Quantum-Like Interference in Frontopolar Cortex During Exploration Under Uncertainty

Maksimovic & Maksymov (2024) argue that quantum-inspired models can mimic human decision dynamics and train faster than classical networks. Timashkov et al. (2024) provide causal evidence that right FPC is involved in storing alternative strategies. We propose a sequential decision-making task with order-sensitive probes designed to elicit quantum-cognition signatures (e.g., context/order effects, violation of classical total probability) during exploration under uncertainty (cf. Cecchini et al., 2024). Using EEG/MEG and right-FPC tDCS, we test three predictions: (a) strategy evaluations show order-dependent interference patterns; (b) FRN/P3 dynamics reflect interference magnitude (e.g., amplified FRN after context switches); and (c) inhibiting right FPC reduces interference signatures, consistent with collapsing strategy superpositions into a more deterministic policy. The novelty is a direct neuro-causal test bridging quantum cognition predictions to frontopolar function, moving beyond correlational fits to adjudicate whether “quantum-like” computations are a useful formal description of exploratory strategy control. This could reconcile conflicting computational accounts of exploration (classical RL vs. quantum-like) and clarify FPC’s role in maintaining concurrent strategy representations under uncertainty.

References:

1. Role of the Right Frontopolar Cortex Stimulation in Extracting Alternative Strategies in Decision-Making: tDCS Study. Andrey Timashkov, Oksana Zinchenko, V. Klucharev (2024). 2024 Sixth International Conference Neurotechnologies and Neurointerfaces (CNN).
2. Quantum-Cognitive Neural Networks: Assessing Confidence and Uncertainty with Human Decision-Making Simulations. Milan Maksimovic, I. S. Maksymov (2024). Big Data and Cognitive Computing.
3. Cognitive mechanisms of learning in sequential decision-making under uncertainty: an experimental and theoretical approach. Gloria Cecchini, M. Depass, Emre Baspinar, M. Andujar, S. Ramawat, P. Pani, S. Ferraina, A. Destexhe, Rubén Moreno-Bote, Ignasi Cos (2024). Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience.