Quantum ontology without textbooks. Nor overlapping
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.This paper critiques two approaches to interpretation-independent quantum mechanics, finding they rely on flawed ontologies. It argues that only structured ontologies, though speculative, can adequately address quantum ontology problems.
Area Of Science
- Philosophy of Physics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Metaphysics
Background
- Current research in quantum mechanics interpretation seeks an understanding independent of specific measurement theories.
- Two prominent proposals, the overlap strategy and the textbook account, have emerged.
Purpose Of The Study
- To critically assess the overlap strategy and the textbook account for interpretation-independent quantum mechanics.
- To evaluate the meta-ontological frameworks underlying these proposals.
- To determine the suitability of different ontological structures for solving quantum ontology problems.
Main Methods
- Critical analysis of the meta-ontological assumptions of the overlap strategy and textbook account.
- Examination of the problem-solving capabilities of flat, structureless ontologies versus structured ontologies in quantum mechanics.
- Argumentation for a speculative, non-neutral approach to quantum ontology.
Main Results
- The assessed proposals presume a Quinean-Carnapian meta-ontological framework leading to flat, structureless ontologies.
- Flat ontologies are insufficient for resolving key problems in quantum ontology.
- Structured ontologies are necessary for addressing quantum ontology challenges, albeit with inherent speculation.
Conclusions
- The presumed meta-ontological framework in current interpretation-independent approaches is inadequate.
- A shift towards structured ontologies is required for progress in quantum ontology.
- A speculative and non-neutral approach is defended as the conservative path forward in quantum ontology research.
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