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Quantum ontology without speculation.

Matthias Egg1

  • 1Institute of Philosophy, University of Bern, Laenggassstrasse 49, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland.

European Journal for Philosophy of Science
|February 11, 2021
PubMed
Summary

This paper offers a new perspective on quantum mechanics (QM) ontology, defending realism about its core components, including spin, without requiring speculation beyond scientific evidence.

Area of Science:

  • Philosophy of Physics
  • Quantum Mechanics Ontology

Background:

  • Current quantum mechanics (QM) ontology proposals often rely on speculation or reject realism.
  • A significant challenge lies in reconciling QM formalism with a realistic worldview.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a novel approach to quantum mechanics ontology.
  • To demonstrate that standard QM formulations support substantial ontological commitments.
  • To defend realism regarding specific QM phenomena, such as spin.

Main Methods:

  • Adoption of a non-fundamentalist approach to ontology.
  • Application of this approach to various aspects of quantum mechanics.
  • Specific defense of realism about quantum spin.

Main Results:

Keywords:
Effective realismOntologyQuantum mechanicsSpinUnderdetermination

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  • Standard quantum mechanics (QM) allows for a more robust ontological commitment than commonly assumed.
  • A non-fundamentalist ontological framework can be successfully applied to QM.
  • Realism about quantum spin is defended as a viable position.

Conclusions:

  • A path exists to uphold realism in quantum mechanics (QM) without excessive speculation.
  • The proposed non-fundamentalist ontology provides a framework for understanding QM's ontological implications.
  • This work challenges previous assumptions about the limits of ontological commitment in QM.