Laura Felline: Scientific explanation in information-theoretic reconstructions of quantum theory

Laura Fellini from the University of Rome discusses scientific explanation within the realm of quantum mechanics, focusing on the distinction between causal explanations and those that do not require ontological commitments. She emphasizes the importance of information-theoretic characterizations and explores the explanatory contributions and limitations of semantic reconstructions in quantum information theory. The talk aims to clarify the role of these principles in providing genuine explanations for phenomena like quantum nonlocality.

The structure of the talk includes a case study on the axiomatic reconstruction of quantum theory to explain nonlocality. Laura highlights the difference between axiomatic reconstructions and ontological interpretations, emphasizing the simplicity and accessibility of the principles used in axiomatic approaches. She explains how these principles provide a framework for describing and quantifying correlations between systems, abstracting from their constitutive details.

Laura explains two key principles: the impossibility of superluminal information transfer and the impossibility of perfect broadcasting. These principles are used to characterize quantum theory and explain nonlocality. She details how these principles lead to the commutativity of algebras and the existence of entangled states, providing a basis for understanding nonlocality in quantum mechanics.

Axiomatic reconstructions offer a new perspective on understanding quantum theory, focusing on information-theoretic principles. Laura discusses the comparative understanding these theories provide, highlighting their ability to address foundational questions about quantum mechanics. She emphasizes that these reconstructions offer a neutral framework for describing correlations and their significance in understanding quantum nonlocality.

Laura introduces the concept of characterizing properties as essential for providing explanations in quantum theory. She adapts Steiner's account of explanatory proofs to axiomatic reconstructions, emphasizing that the two information-theoretic principles serve as the characterizing properties of quantum theory. The explanatory power of these reconstructions lies in showing how nonlocal entanglement follows from these principles.

Laura discusses the role of counterfactual reasoning in scientific explanations, particularly in axiomatic reconstructions. She compares this approach to other explanatory models in science, highlighting its ability to provide specific 'what-if' knowledge by varying the principles of the theory. She connects this to broader discussions on the nature of scientific explanation, emphasizing the importance of structural dependence.

Laura explores the claim that information-theoretic principles should occupy a special place in the ontology of quantum theory. She analyzes different accounts of explanation, arguing that the explanatory power of axiomatic reconstructions does not necessarily depend on the ontological status of information. She suggests that these principles can provide genuine explanations even under minimal phenomenological interpretations.

Laura examines the claim that successful axiomatic reconstructions can make traditional interpretations of quantum theory explanatorily irrelevant. She argues that while these reconstructions provide structural explanations, they do not address causal questions about quantum correlations. She discusses the distinction between causal and structural explanations, using examples from special relativity and quantum mechanics.

Laura elaborates on the idea that structural explanations in quantum information theory can provide a new perspective on understanding quantum correlations. She discusses the conditions under which information-theoretic principles can be considered fundamental and the implications for interpreting quantum mechanics. She emphasizes the need for these principles to be seen as essential to provide a complete explanatory framework.

Laura concludes by discussing the importance of choosing the appropriate family of reference for evaluating explanatory frameworks. She suggests that the value of an explanation can be assessed by the generality and interest of the family of theories it references. She reflects on the broader implications of axiomatic reconstructions for understanding the foundations of quantum theory.

Laura considers the possibility of multiple explanatory models coexisting in quantum mechanics. She compares the explanatory power of axiomatic reconstructions to that of principle theories like special relativity. She argues that while both provide valuable insights, they offer different types of explanations that can complement each other in understanding complex phenomena.

Laura discusses the ongoing debate about the role of interpretations in quantum theory. She argues that while axiomatic reconstructions provide valuable structural explanations, they do not eliminate the need for interpretations that address causal questions about quantum correlations. She highlights the importance of considering multiple perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding of quantum mechanics.

Laura emphasizes the contributions of information-theoretic principles in providing a neutral framework for understanding quantum correlations. She argues that these principles offer significant epistemic value by distinguishing between quantum and classical theories. She concludes that while information-theoretic principles may not be fundamental, they play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of quantum mechanics.

Laura addresses the role of counterfactual reasoning in providing explanatory power in scientific theories. She argues that even if the relationship between principles and theorems is purely analytical, it still constitutes a valid form of explanation. She suggests that counterfactual reasoning is a key component of scientific explanation, particularly in the context of axiomatic reconstructions.