Variational formulation of transactional and related interpretations of quantum mechanics

Noboru Hokkyo

J. G. Cramer

J. G. Cramer

Peter J. Lewis

The Transactional Interpretation of quantum mechanics is a promising way of fulfilling Einstein’s vision of a completed quantum mechanics. However, it has received forceful criticism from Maudlin. Indeed, I shall argue that the force of Maudlin’s criticisms has been underestimated, and that none of the extant responses are adequate. An adequate response, I contend, requires reconceptualizing the kinds of explanations the Transactional Interpretation gives. I sketch such a reinterpretation and argue that it does not fall prey to Maudlin’s objections. However, there remain significant obstacles in the way of formulating a fully adequate version of the Transactional Interpretation.

Daniel F. Styer, Miranda S. Balkin, Kathryn M. Becker +10 more

Nine formulations of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics are reviewed. These are the wavefunction, matrix, path integral, phase space, density matrix, second quantization, variational, pilot wave, and Hamilton–Jacobi formulations. Also mentioned are the many-worlds and transactional interpretations. The various formulations differ dramatically in mathematical and conceptual overview, yet each one makes identical predictions for all experimental results.

‎Louis Marchildon

Cramer's transactional interpretation of quantum mechanics is reviewed, and a number of issues related to advanced interactions and state vector collapse are analyzed. Where some have suggested that Cramer's predictions may not be correct or definite, I argue that they are, but I point out that the classical-quantum distinction problem in the Copenhagen interpretation has its parallel in the transactional interpretation.