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Journal of Physics A Mathematical and General

The relative states and many-world interpretations of quantum mechanics and the EPR problem

M. A. B. Whitaker

Published Feb 1, 1985• 11 citations
Publisher

Abstract

The basic contributions to the concept of the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics are analysed. It is found necessary to divide them into two classes corresponding to (a) the relative-states interpretation (RSI), which avoids problems of measurement, but is found generally unconvincing, and (b) the many-worlds interpretation (MWI), which is more comprehensible, but has all the problems of the von Neumann scheme. The EPR problem is tackled using each interpretation. The RSI finds no problem, while the MWI meets the same difficulties as conventional interpretations.

DOI
10.1088/0305-4470/18/2/015

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The basic contributions to the concept of the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics are analysed. It is found necessary to divide them into two classes corresponding to (a) the relative-states interpretation (RSI), which avoids problems of measurement, but is found generally unconvincing, and (b) the many-worlds interpretation (MWI), which is more comprehensible, but has all the problems of the von Neumann scheme. The EPR problem is tackled using each interpretation. The RSI finds no problem, while the MWI meets the same difficulties as conventional interpretations.
The quantum Zeno paradox is examined within the many-worlds and relative states interpretations of quantum mechanics. In the many-worlds interpretation the effect is predicted to persist. The possibility of recombining worlds is not expected to be relevant. In the simplest form of relative states interpretation the effect may be avoided but this form of interpretation experiences difficulties in coping with conventional problems of quantum theory. The more complex version of the relative states interpretation, which takes account of the correlations of system with apparatus, predicts the occurrence of the paradox.
Many world interpretations (MWIs) of quantum mechanics avoid the measurement problem by considering every term in the quantum superposition as actual. A seemingly opposed solution is proposed by modal interpretations (MIs) which state that quantum mechanics does not provide an account of what “actually is the case,” but rather deals with what “might be the case,” i.e., with possibilities. In this paper we provide an algebraic framework which allows us to analyze in depth the modal aspects of MWI. Within our general formal scheme we also provide a formal comparison between MWI and MI, in particular, we provide a formal understanding of why—even though both interpretations share the same formal structure—MI fall pray of Kochen–Specker-type contradictions while MWI escape them.
Next year, there will be a 100-year celebration of quantum mechanics, but there is no consensus on the interpretation of this theory. This reprint presents recent works on one of the most intriguing interpretations, the many-worlds interpretation, presented at a workshop in October 2022 at Tel Aviv University. The many-worlds interpretation solves the measurement problem, avoids action at a distance and indeterminism, and does not contradict empirical evidence. The main question discussed in the workshop was as follows: why is it not in the consensus? Major issues such as preferred basis, the meaning of probability, non-locality, and alternative approaches were discussed, which are increasingly drawing attention in physics and philosophy. The contributions demonstrated a striking diversity in understanding the basic concepts. What are the worlds in the many-worlds interpretation? Do the worlds diverge or split? Is probability objective or subjective, or is it just an illusion? Can we avoid the non-separability of quantum mechanics? Many questions were raised and significant progress in understanding was achieved, but the papers showed that consensus is still far away. This reprint describes the current status of the research and will be invaluable for physicists and philosophers who want to resolve the long-standing problem of the interpretation of quantum mechanics.
Standard quantum theory is highly successful in all its applications, from photons and atoms, to semiconductors, superconductors, quarks, and so on. Yet the need to understand what the theory is really trying to tell us about the nature of the world beyond specific predictions forces us into the realm of philosophy, or, as some have dubbed it, quantum metaphysics: the study of the interpretation of quantum mechanics. There is a wide range of opinions regarding the philosophical foundations of quantum mechanics. This chapter focuses on two of the most prominent interpretations: the Copenhagen interpretation, and one alternative interpretation that has been gaining some support in recent years, the many-worlds interpretation (MWI), also known as the many universes interpretation. The central issues of contention are: firstly, that the measurement of some attribute of a quantum system generally involves the probabilistic collapse, or reduction, of the state vector where the probabilistic nature of the process is inherent—that is, not reducible to a more fundamental, deterministic explanation; and, secondly, the problem of bringing a measurement to a completion—a problem generally known as the measurement paradox.
The articles provides a phenomenological reading of the Many-Worlds Interpretation (MWI) of quantum mechanics and its answer to the measurement problem, or the question of “why only one of a wave function’s probable values is observed when the system is measured.” Transcendental-phenomenological and hermeneutic-phenomenological approaches are employed. The project comprises four parts. Parts one and two review MWI and the standard (Copenhagen) interpretation of quantum mechanics. Part three reviews the phenomenologies. Part four deconstructs the hermeneutics of MWI. It agrees with the confidence the theory derives from its (1) unforgiving appropriation of the Schrödinger equation and (2) association of branching universes with the evolution of the wave function insofar as that understanding comes from the formalism itself. Part four also reveals the hermeneutical shortcomings of the standard interpretation.
The Many-worlds Interpretation (MWI) of quantum mechanics has captivated physicists and philosophers alike since its inception in the mid-20th century. This paper explores the historical roots, evolution, and implications of the MWI within the context of quantum theory. Beginning with an overview of early developments in quantum mechanics and the emergence of foundational interpretations, we delve into the origins of the MWI through the groundbreaking work of physicist Hugh Everett III. Everett's doctoral thesis proposed a radical solution to the measurement problem, positing the existence of multiple branching universes to account for quantum phenomenon. We trace the evolution of the MWI, examining its refinement and elaboration by subsequent physicists such as John Wheeler. Furthermore, we discuss the MWI's impact on contemporary physics, including its connections to quantum information theory and ongoing experimental tests. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the MWI's historical development and current relevance, this paper offers insights into one of the most provocative interpretations of quantum mechanics and its implications for our understanding of the universe.