Reality and the Role of the Wave Function in Quantum Theory

Dürr, Detlef; Zanghı̀, Nino

doi:10.1007/978-3-642-30690-7_12

Cited by 10 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 13 publications

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“…In quantum physics, one can observe certain outcomes whose probabilities are supplied by the theory. Calculation of these probabilities (frequencies) requires a recourse to complex valued probability amplitudes, or wave functions, whose precise status is still debated in the literature (see, for example, [1]). Seen by some as a purely mathematical tool, the amplitudes are pervasive in the theory, and their values can sometimes be divulged from the observed frequencies [2].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

From quantum to classical by numbers

2019

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We follow Kofler and Brukner (2007 Phys. Rev. Lett. 99 180403) in studying the conditions under which a classical picture emerges from the results of not too accurate quantum measurements made on large macroscopic objects. We show that for such objects, consisting of a large number of microscopic elements obeying quantum laws, the Central Limit theorem guarantees the existence of classical values for collective variables, even if the corresponding operators do not commute. Owing to localisation of the overall wave function in any chosen representation, these values can be measured to a small relative error without significantly altering the state of the object. We study a simple model, which includes a rudimentary observer capable of detecting in the coordinate space the position of a macroscopic pointer. The pointer can be employed to measure such quantities, not directly accessible to the observer, as linear or angular momenta. A purely classical picture arises provided the measurements are made on macroscopic objects. Results of measurements, made on small quantum objects, cannot be predicted with certainty, but acquire certain objectivity when encoded in macroscopic pointers' positions accessible to all observers. Our estimates show that the classical conditions could, in principle, be realised for systems with number of constituent parts of the order of the Avogadro constant. It is possible that the approach captures the essential features of the quantum-to-classical behaviour, although its extension to more realistic systems is likely to be required.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

From quantum to classical by numbers

2019

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Eight Oxford Questions: Quantum Mechanics Under a New Light

Ares

Pearson

Briggs

2020

Fundamental Theories of Physics

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Realism and instrumentalism about the wave function: how should we choose?

Dorato¹,

Laudisa²

2014

Protective Measurement and Quantum Reality

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The main claim of the paper is that one can be 'realist' (in some sense) about quantum mechanics without requiring any form of realism about the wave function. We begin by discussing various forms of realism about the wave function, namely Albert's configuration-space realism, Dürr Zanghi and Goldstein's nomological realism about Ψ, Esfeld's dispositional reading of Ψ and Pusey Barrett and Rudolph's realism about the quantum state. By discussing the articulation of these four positions, and their interrelation, we conclude that instrumentalism about Ψ is by itself not sufficient to choose one over the other interpretations of quantum mechanics, thereby confirming in a different way the indetermination of the metaphysical interpretations of quantum mechanics.

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Reality and the Role of the Wave Function in Quantum Theory

Cited by 10 publications

References 13 publications

From quantum to classical by numbers

From quantum to classical by numbers

Eight Oxford Questions: Quantum Mechanics Under a New Light

Realism and instrumentalism about the wave function: how should we choose?

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