Quantum Mechanics and Paradigm Shifts

Emory Taylor, Rajan N. Iyer

This paper is about a new paradigm shift in physics. According to Einstein, Newton’s theory of gravity is a first approximation of general relativity, which is Einstein’s theory of gravity, in the limit, which is when gravitational fields are weak and the velocities of masses (relative to a coordinate system) are small compared to the velocity of light. Since Schrödinger was aware of de Broglie’s relation when he formulated his quantum wave mechanics, it is acceptable to enforce the application of de Broglie’s relation in Schrödinger’s quantum wave mechanics. This enforcement leads to a new paradigm shift in physics.

David McIntyre, Corinne A. Manogue, Janet Tate

Jerome Manyahi

For three centuries Newtonian mechanics had been firmly established as a valid theory for the understanding of physical reality; if one understands the laws of physics, then one understands the whole universe. Classical physicists had contented themselves with the search for regularities in measurements and in the physical world. Irregularities were regarded as noises that interfered with the deterministic picture of physical reality. However, from 1900s onwards with the quantum hypothesis, physicists had begun to recognize that the physics of Newton and Maxwell were inadequate for the understanding of all of the physical reality. For example, the interaction of radiation with matter could not be explained from classical physics. This dilemma led to the discovery of quantum mechanics. In this article we explore the challenges that students face in understanding quantum mechanics that arises from paradigm shift in the mode of reasoning about the physical world. The description of physical reality in general and quantum reality in particular requires that we shift our mode of reasoning from classical Boolean logic to quantum non Boolean logic.

Atila Yüksel

This chapter embarks on a journey through the evolving intersections of classical and quantum paradigms, examining their implications for the social sciences. Beginning with the classical paradigm and its limitations, the discussion introduces the philosophical foundations and revolutionary insights of quantum mechanics, challenging traditional assumptions of reality. Key quantum concepts such as uncertainty, complementarity, entanglement, and the probabilistic nature of the wave function are explored to reveal a world marked by interconnectedness and discontinuity. The chapter then reconsiders fundamental constructs of space, time, and causality, investigating quantum non-locality, the complex nature of time, and the nuances of causation beyond mere correlation. Expanding beyond physics, the discussion reimagines social science methodologies, proposing a reconceptualization of reality that embraces quantum perspectives. This framework shifts the understanding of the “researched” from a classical to a quantum human, urging a methodological and philosophical reorientation in social science inquiry.