Quantum Physics – list of Philosophical Interpretations

The paragraph introduces the Copenhagen Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics, which posits that particles lack definite properties until measured, with everything known about a particle encapsulated by its wave function. The wave function, serving as a tool for calculating probabilities, collapses upon observation to a single outcome. However, the paragraph also points out the interpretation's shortcomings, such as the vague definition of 'observation' and the lack of clarity on when and how the wave function collapses. Objective Collapse theories are presented as an alternative, suggesting that wave functions collapse without observation, possibly due to entanglement or interaction with space-time curvature. These theories are testable and may be verifiable with future technological advancements. The paragraph also touches on the issue of wave function collapse potentially violating the speed of light limit, a point of contention with Einstein's Theory of Relativity.

This section delves into the EPR paradox and the concept of 'spooky action at a distance,' where entangled particles exhibit correlated measurements despite spatial separation. Retro-causality interpretations are introduced as a means to address this paradox without invoking faster-than-light communication. These interpretations propose that information could be traveling back in time, with particles setting initial conditions to avoid future paradoxes. The Transactional Interpretation is highlighted, where forward and backward traveling wave functions interact to determine the universe's path, independent of observers. This interpretation provides an explanation for the probability distribution of particle locations and does not assume a predetermined universe, unlike other interpretations.

Super Determinism is presented as an interpretation where the universe's fate, including all measurements, was predetermined at the Big Bang, thus resolving the EPR paradox without backward time communication. QBism, or Quantum Bayesianism, offers a subjective take on quantum probabilities, suggesting that they represent personal beliefs about outcomes rather than objective realities. Wave function collapse is viewed as an update in personal belief rather than an objective event. QBism emphasizes the role of observers in shaping their understanding of quantum events and introduces a different set of rules for the relationships between probabilities compared to classical probability theory.

The Many Worlds interpretation is explored, proposing that all possible quantum outcomes occur in parallel universes, a theory criticized for its untestability and the need for additional assumptions. The Pilot Wave Theory, or Bohmian mechanics, is described as a deterministic interpretation where particles have definite positions and velocities guided by waves, but it raises issues with instantaneous interactions violating relativity. The paragraph also touches on interpretations involving consciousness in wave function collapse, which bring metaphysical questions and challenges, such as the role of conscious observers and the implications of relativity on the timing of events.

Relational Quantum Mechanics is introduced as an interpretation where the concept of wave function collapse is relative to the observer, allowing for different perspectives on the state of a quantum system. This interpretation addresses the EPR paradox by stating that no single observer can measure both particles' spins simultaneously. The paragraph concludes with a discussion on Quantum Logic, which suggests that classical logic may not apply to the quantum world and that the probability of statements could be represented geometrically. It is posited that our intuition for classical logic and Euclidean geometry is due to evolutionary survival rather than an inherent truth of the universe, prompting a careful consideration of whether to adopt Quantum Logic.