Some Conceptual Problems of Quantum Theory

Ioan Sturzu

The paper emphasis the role of unsharpness in the body of Quantum Theory and the relations to the conceptual problems of the Theory. Key words: quantum measurement, unsharpness, effect, positive operator-valued measure

John Rarity

Sheldon Goldstein, Stefan Teufel

We explore the possibility of a Bohmian approach to the problem of finding a quantum theory incorporating gravitational phenomena. The major conceptual problems of canonical quantum gravity are the problem of time and the problem of diffeomorphism invariant observables. We find that these problems are artifacts of the subjectivity and vagueness inherent in the framework of orthodox quantum theory. When we insist upon ontological clarity---the distinguishing characteristic of a Bohmian approach---these conceptual problems vanish. We shall also discuss the implications of a Bohmian perspective for the significance of the wave function, concluding with unbridled speculation as to why the universe should be governed by laws so apparently bizarre as those of quantum mechanics.

David T. Johnson

Quantum mechanics is an extremely successful and accurate physical theory, yet since its inception, it has been afflicted with numerous conceptual difficulties. The primary subject of this thesis is the theory of entropic quantum dynamics (EQD), which seeks to avoid these conceptual problems by interpreting quantum theory from an informational perspective.

Sandu Popescu, Yakir Aharonov, Sidney Coleman +5 more