Quantum Worlds

Authors

  • Jeffrey A. Barrett Department of Logic and Philosophy Science School of Social Sciences University of California, Irvine USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5007/1808-1711.2016v20n1p45

Abstract

Because of the conceptual difficulties it faces, quantum mechanics provides a salient example of how alternative metaphysical commitments may clarify our understanding of a physical theory and the explanations it provides. Here we will consider how postulating alternative quantum worlds in the context of Hugh Everett III’s pure wave mechanics may serve to explain determinate measurement records and the standard quantum statistics. We will focus on the properties of such worlds, then briefly consider other metaphysical options available for interpreting pure wave mechanics. These reflections will serve to illustrate both the nature and the limits of naturalized metaphysics.

Author Biography

Jeffrey A. Barrett, Department of Logic and Philosophy Science School of Social Sciences University of California, Irvine USA

Professod at Department of Logic and Philosophy Science

School of Social Sciences

University of California, Irvine

USA

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Published

2016-09-22

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Section

Articles