Subject–Object in the Absence of an Independent Observer Observation, Constraint, and Recursive Self-Registration

Foundational physics and contemporary consciousness research both encounter phenomena that challenge classical subject–object frameworks. In physics, particularly in interpretations of quantum theory, observation is treated as a relational process rather than passive registration of preexisting properties. In neuroscience, cognitive science, and phenomenological research, reports associated with contemplative practice, altered states, or spontaneous awakening experiences frequently describe changes in how subject–object relations are organized. Despite these parallels, the two domains often lack a shared interpretive framework capable of situating such reports without metaphysical overreach or reduction. This paper proposes a conceptual model in which cognition and observation are understood in terms of constraint, differentiation, and recursive self-registration. The paper does not propose new mechanisms but offers an interpretive framework for relating foundational physics and consciousness research. In the proposed model, the undifferentiated field of potential is treated as the background condition within which differentiation is discussed. Observation is treated as the capacity for reflectivity within this field. Differentiation occurs through reflection under constraint. When differentiation becomes recursively related to itself, self-registration appears, and an internal point of view is introduced. Within this view, the observer effect is interpreted as the emergence of internal points of view generated by recursive constraint. Human cognition is understood as a highly developed instance of recursive self-registration, capable of symbolic reflection and self-modeling, rather than the source of awareness.