Quantum superpositions and the representation of physical reality beyond measurement outcomes and mathematical structures
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Publication:2289679
DOI10.1007/S10699-017-9541-ZzbMATH Open1428.81015arXiv1603.06112OpenAlexW2963219830MaRDI QIDQ2289679FDOQ2289679
Authors: C. De Ronde 
Publication date: 24 January 2020
Published in: Foundations of Science (Search for Journal in Brave)
Abstract: In this paper we intend to discuss the importance of providing a physical representation of quantum superpositions which goes beyond the mere reference to mathematical structures and measurement outcomes. This proposal goes in the opposite direction to the project present in orthodox contemporary philosophy of physics which attempts to "bridge the gap" between the quantum formalism and common sense "classical reality" --precluding, right from the start, the possibility of interpreting quantum superpositions through non-classical notions. We will argue that in order to restate the problem of interpretation of quantum mechanics in truly ontological terms we require a radical revision of the problems and definitions addressed within the orthodox literature. On the one hand, we will discuss the need of providing a formal redefinition of superpositions which captures explicitly their contextual character. On the other hand, we will attempt to replace the focus on the measurement problem, which concentrates on the justification of measurement outcomes from "weird" superposed states, and introduce the superposition problem which focuses instead on the conceptual representation of superpositions themselves. In this respect, after presenting three necessary conditions for objective physical representation, we will provide arguments which show why the classical (actualist) representation of physics faces severe difficulties to solve the superposition problem. Finally, we will also argue that, if we are willing to abandon the (metaphysical) presupposition according to which 'Actuality = Reality', then there is plenty of room to construct a conceptual representation for quantum superpositions.
Full work available at URL: https://arxiv.org/abs/1603.06112
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- Representational realism, closed theories and the quantum to classical limit
- A non-spatial reality
- Measuring quantum superpositions. (Or, ``It is only the theory which decides what can be observed.)
- The logos categorical approach to quantum mechanics. I: Kochen-Specker contextuality and global intensive valuations
- Understanding quantum superarrivals using the Bohmian model
- An efficient approach for quantum entanglement purification
- A new objective definition of quantum entanglement as potential coding of intensive and effective relations
- Quantum jumps, superpositions, and the continuous evolution of quantum states
- On the conceptuality interpretation of quantum and relativity theories
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