A criticism to the fundamental principles of physics: The problem of the quantum measurement (I)

Raju S. Khatiwada

The measurement problem in physics remains an unresolved challenge characterized by significant conceptual complexity. Paradoxically, mainstream scientific discourse has often sidestepped this issue by invoking processes such as the 'collapse of the wavefunction'—a mechanism that, to this day, lacks a rigorous definition. This framework has primarily served as a pragmatic way to bypass the problem, allowing the inherent subjectivity introduced by the observer to be overlooked. In this article, I aim to provide a detailed exposition of the measurement problem and trace its underlying causes. A case will be made for integrating perspectives from the Philosophy of Science to address this issue systematically. Furthermore, I will explore the critical necessity of developing a robust theory of consciousness, which may provide deeper insights into the measurement problem. By investigating the foundational principles of such a theory, this work seeks to illuminate the intricate relationship between Quantum Theory and Consciousness, potentially offering a more unified understanding of these fundamental phenomena.

Анна Юрьевна Сторожук

Wolfgang Weidlich

Chandima Gomes

The quantum measurement problem remains a central unresolved issue in theoretical physics, arising from the incompatibility between unitary quantum dynamics and the emergence of definite measurement outcomes. Closely related is the question of the physical status of the wavefunction within contemporary quantum theory. This review critically surveys leading approaches to the measurement problem, focusing on their formal consistency, physical assumptions, and empirical implications. We examine the standard measurement framework, the role of environment-induced decoherence and quantum Darwinism, and the restrictions imposed by no-go theorems such as Bell, Kochen–Specker, and Pusey–Barrett–Rudolph. Interpretations including Everettian many-worlds, Bohmian mechanics, spontaneous collapse models, relational quantum mechanics, QBist approaches, and Copenhagen-type frameworks are assessed in terms of their ability to account for classical definiteness without sacrificing empirical adequacy. We also review experimental efforts probing macroscopic superpositions and collapse dynamics. The analysis indicates that, despite its predictive success, quantum theory lacks a complete physical account of outcome selection. This suggests that the measurement problem reflects a fundamental structural limitation of current theory, motivating either new physical principles or a redefinition of the wavefunction’s ontological role.

Sara Skouri

We introduce the Principle of Wave-Particle Oscillation, which identifies a critical mass threshold m_c = h-bar / (omega Delta x_th^2) that separates quantum from classical behavior. This threshold emerges from the competition between quantum zero-point fluctuations and thermal or environmental noise in harmonic oscillators. Systems with mass below m_c maintain quantum coherence; those above m_c are irreversibly classical. Applying this principle to Schrödinger's cat resolves the paradox: the cat's mass far exceeds m_c, so its wavefunction collapses instantly—the cat is never in superposition. The principle unifies classical and quantum harmonic oscillators under a single framework and makes testable predictions: critical slowing down, a 1/f^1.5 power spectrum, and Tracy-Widom statistics near the quantum-classical boundary. This work provides a physical, observer-independent resolution to the measurement problem and establishes a fundamental limit for quantum coherence.

Francis Fer