Quantum Reconstructions as Stepping Stones Toward ψ-Doxastic Interpretations?

Area of Science:

• Quantum foundations
• Information-theoretic principles
• Philosophy of quantum mechanics

Background:

• Growing interest in reconstructing quantum formalism from physical principles.
• Reconstructions are often information-theoretic and operational.
• Standard ψ-ontic interpretations face challenges from this program.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the implications of the quantum reconstruction program (QRP) for interpretations of quantum mechanics.
• Evaluate ψ-epistemic interpretations in light of recent challenges.
• Propose ψ-doxastic interpretations as a viable alternative.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the tension between QRP and ψ-ontic interpretations.
• Critique of ψ-epistemic interpretations based on technical and conceptual grounds.
• Exploration of ψ-doxastic interpretations within an information-theoretic framework.

Main Results:

• QRP puts pressure on ψ-ontic interpretations.
• ψ-epistemic interpretations face significant challenges.
• ψ-doxastic interpretations offer a potential alternative.

Conclusions:

• The wave function may not represent objective facts.
• Knowledge-based (ψ-epistemic) interpretations are problematic.
• Reconstructions should utilize non-factive experiential terms for ψ-doxastic interpretations.