Spooky predictions at a distance: reality, complementarity and contextuality in quantum theory

Area of Science:

• Quantum mechanics and foundational physics.
• Philosophy of science, focusing on epistemology and interpretation.

Background:

• Niels Bohr's concept of complementarity is central to quantum theory.
• Interpretations of quantum mechanics often grapple with the nature of reality.
• The relationship between complementarity and contextuality remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To integrate concepts of reality, complementarity, and contextuality within quantum theory.
• To elucidate Bohr's complementarity through a non-realist epistemological lens.
• To establish novel connections between quantum complementarity and contextuality.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of quantum theory.
• Examination of non-realist epistemology and its implications for quantum interpretations.
• Integration of Bohr's complementarity with the principle of contextuality.

Main Results:

• Clarification of Bohr's complementarity by incorporating a 'reality without realism' perspective.
• Demonstration of the interconnectedness of complementarity and contextuality in quantum mechanics.
• Contribution to understanding the foundational principles of quantum theory.

Conclusions:

• Complementarity and contextuality are deeply intertwined in quantum mechanics.
• A non-realist framework provides a valuable perspective for understanding quantum phenomena.
• The study offers a novel synthesis of key concepts in quantum foundations.