Quantum Mechanics and the Interpretation Problem

Thomas Boyer‐Kassem

The coexistence of several interpretations of one theory is considered through the example of non-relativistic quantum mechanics. The problem considered is whether physicists manage to work properly in spite of the several interpretations. The criterion adopted is the possibility of re-using others ’ works for another research: this is called “fruitfulness of works”. It is argued that such a fruitfulness is possible between works made in different quantum interpretations. Quantum interpretations in conflict Quantum mechanics (QM) is famous nowadays for having several interpretations. Here are some quotations which illustrate some oppositions: People who have not grasped the ideas of [Bohm’s] papers [...] are handicapped in any discussion of the meaning of quantum mechanics. (Bell, 1987, p. 173) The quantum theory of parallel universes [...] is the explanation — the only one that is tenable.

Roland L. Omnes

Raoni Wohnrath Arroyo, Lauro de Matos Nunes Filho, Frederik Moreira dos Santos

According to a particular interpretation of quantum mechanics, the causal role of human consciousness in the measuring process is called upon to solve a foundational problem called the "measurement problem."Traditionally, this interpretation is tied up with the metaphysics of substance dualism.As such, this interpretation of quantum mechanics inherits the dualist's mind-body problem.Our working hypothesis is that a process-based approach to the consciousness causes collapse interpretation (CCCI) -leaning on Whitehead's solution to the mind-body problem-offers a better metaphysical understanding of consciousness and its role in interpreting quantum mechanics.This article is the kickoff for such a research program in the metaphysics of science.

Pieter E. Vermaas

In this paper I consider the problem of interpreting quantum mechanics. I argue that this problem has evolved in part into the problem of selecting tenable interpretations from a set of available interpretations. We lack the means to make this selection. There is consensus that interpretations should be consistent and empirically adequate. But these conditions are not particularly discriminative. Other conditions may be discriminative but are not generally accepted. I propose two new conditions for selecting tenable interpretations, motivated by the use of quantum mechanics in technology. The first requires that interpretations ascribe the physical properties to technical artefacts that are entailed by the ascription of technical functions to those artefacts. The second requires that they ascribe the physical properties represented by engineering sketches of those artefacts. I consider the example of quantum teleportation in some detail. 1. Introduction 2. The problem of interpreting quantum mechanics 3. Technical functions 4. Decoders in quantum teleportation 5. Engineering sketches 6. Conclusions Appendix: Quantum teleportation

Ryan Lee