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Situated observation in Bohmian mechanics.
1Logic and Philosophy of Science, School of Social Sciences, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697-5100, USA.
Studies in History and Philosophy of Science
|July 24, 2021
Summary
This study explores empirical adequacy in quantum mechanics, focusing on how theories explain observer experiences. Bohmian mechanics is examined as a case study for addressing the quantum measurement problem.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Mechanics
- Philosophy of Science
Background:
- The measurement problem is a central challenge in quantum mechanics.
- Empirical adequacy is crucial for scientific theories, especially in quantum physics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and investigate empirical adequacy for quantum mechanics formulations.
- To analyze the measurement problem through the lens of empirical adequacy.
- To explore Bohmian mechanics as a case study for observer-situated empirical adequacy.
Main Methods:
- Distinguishing between stronger and weaker varieties of empirical adequacy.
- Analyzing quantum mechanics formulations based on their ability to explain observer experiences.
- Examining Bohmian mechanics' explanation of situated observer experience.
Main Results:
- Strong empirical adequacy requires explaining the experiences of a physically situated observer.
- A theory with situated empirical adequacy offers a compelling response to the measurement problem.
- Bohmian mechanics provides a framework for explaining situated observer experiences within quantum mechanics.
Conclusions:
- Empirical adequacy in quantum mechanics is best understood through the experiences of situated observers.
- This approach offers a novel perspective on resolving the quantum measurement problem.
- Bohmian mechanics serves as a viable example of a formulation achieving situated empirical adequacy.
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