24.111 Philosophy of Quantum Mechanics, Spring 2002

Andrei Tokmakoff

Roger Penrose, Christopher John Isham

Recent developments in quantum theory have focused attention on fundamental questions, in particular on whether it might be necessary to modify quantum mechanics to reconcile quantum gravity and general relativity. This book is based on a conference held in Oxford in the spring of 1984 to discuss quantum gravity. It brings together contributors who examine different aspects of the problem, including the experimental support for quantum mechanics, its strange and apparently paradoxical features, its underlying philosophy, and possible modifications to the theory.

Robert W. Field

Jincheng Zhang

This paper introduces the Entanglement Phase Spring (EPS), a theoretical framework proposing a fundamentally new understanding of quantum mechanics. The EPS posits that entangled quantum systems, when perturbed from their equilibrium states, exhibit an inherent tendency towards recovery, driven by an external force proportional to the phase difference between the entangled components. This concept, formulated mathematically as `F_E=-k_E\Delta\phi`, represents a novel interpretation of quantum forces and offers a potential pathway towards a more intuitive and experimentally accessible quantum theory. The EPS is conceptualized within an artificial quantum system framework, drawing parallels with classical spring-mass systems, and is presented as a potentially groundbreaking concept with significant implications for the future of quantum research and potentially deserving of consideration for Nobel Prize recognition. The core of the EPS lies in establishing a new "entanglement mechanics" that moves beyond the established interpretations of quantum entanglement.

Cory Tamler

I have already written one play, Not Eureka, which explores one way in which theatre can give a voice to science. While not a traditional "science history" play, Not Eureka concerns, and I hope illuminates, several scientific experiments of historical significance.In my current research, I have continued to explore ways to incorporate science into theatre. My project is similar to Not Eureka in that I am engaged in writing a new, full-length play (City Lights, Receding), based on research and scientific in focus. However, the project is not a repeat of my previous work. Instead of recounting and clarifying already fairly well-established scientific concepts, City Lights, Receding is philosophical, speculative, in nature.My focus as a History and Philosophy of Science (HPS) major is in the philosophy of quantum physics. I find this particular area of physical-philosophical inquiry both appealing and dramatic. My play explores, in a dramatic, speculative way, the philosophical problems presented by modern physics, and the conflict between the classical and modern worlds.I completed a graduate seminar in the philosophy of quantum mechanics in fall 2007. Since then, I have pursued research independently into the philosophy of quantum mechanics, identifying specific areas within the topic useful to the development of my script. I have focused on theories of interpretation such as GRW, many-worlds and many-minds theories. I have also been reading as many science-based plays as I can get my hands on.Fall 2008 began my writing period. By the beginning of spring semester 2009, I had a draft in reading-ready form; a seated reading through the Theatre Arts department, directed by Regina Connolly and featuring Charlie Brown (Verdenmacher), Parag S. Gohel (Armin), Mary Heyne (Marian), Lily Junker (Brody), and Joe McGranaghan (Albert Albert), was performed from April 9-11, 2009. Based on the reading and the response of audience and theatre/HPS faculty to it, I plan to revise the script with the goal of eventually pursuing full production opportunities.

Washington Taylor