Einstein and Quantum Theory

Max Jammer

Johannes F. Geurdes

Both Bohr and Einstein were right about the interpretation of quantum theory. The quantum theory is interpreted as a measurement theory with a more prominent role for the instrument. Here, Einstein’s local hidden variables are non-statistical but arise from quantum theory itself.

Norbert Straumann

In this contribution I discuss a peak in Einstein's endeavor to extract as much information as possible about the nature of radiation from the Planck distribution is his paper "On the Quantum Theory of Radiation" of 1916. This is one of the most important contributions of Einstein to quantum theory.

Max Jammer

Arthur I. Fine

The Argument This paper argues that Einstein subscribed to three distinct kinds of interpretations of the quantum theory: subjective, instrumental, and hidden variables interpretations. We explore the context and ihe content of Einstein's thinking over these interpretations, emphasizing Einstein's conception of his role not only as a critic of the new quantum theory but also as a guide pointing the way to better physics.

Max Jammer