Interpreting Quantum Theory A Therapeutic Approach

Debates about the foundations of quantum theory usually circle around two main challenges: the so-called 'measurement problem' and a claimed tension between quantum theory and relativity theory that arises from the phenomena labelled 'quantum non-locality'. This work explores the possibility of a 'therapeutic approach' to these problems that regards them as arising from mistaken conceptual presuppositions and quantum theory as a fully respectable theory that is fine as it stands.

Pursuing this project, the book develops and defends the idea that quantum states do not represent features of physical reality, it distinguishes between legitimate and illegitimate uses of anthropocentric notions in foundational accounts, it considers the nature of explanation in quantum theory, and it addresses complications that arise in quantum field theory. In addition, it argues that quantum theory is 'locally causal' inasmuch as quantum probabilities, properly construed, are independent of what occurs at space-like distance.

Simon Friederich studied physics and philosophy in Göttingen and Lausanne and obtained a PhD in physics at the University of Heidelberg. He has held academic appointments in Wuppertal and Göttingen, Germany, and published articles in various leading philosophy journals. His research interests include the philosophy of physics, the philosophy of mathematics, epistemology and philosophy of mind.

PrefaceSeries Editor's Foreword
PART I: INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
1. Introduction
2. Sketch of the Formalism
3. Interpretations as Solutions to the Measurement Problem
PART II: THE RULE PERSPECTIVE
4. Motivating a Therapeutic Approach
5. In Search of a Viable Epistemic Account
6. Quantum Probabilities: What Are They?
PART III: OBJECTIONS
7. Copenhagen Reloaded?
8. The Charge of Anthropocentricism
9. Reduction and Explanation
PART IV: NON-LOCALITY, QUANTUM FIELD THEORY, AND REALITY
10. Non-locality Reconsidered
11. A Look at Quantum Field Theory
12. Quantum Theory and 'Reality'
Appendix
A. Sketch of Bell's Theorem
B. The Kochen-Specker Theorem in a Nutshell
C. The Pusey-Barrett-Rudolph (PBR) Theorem—A Short Introduction
Notes
Bibliography