Constraints on Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

A succinct statement and justification of all the principles necessary to understand and evaluate interpretations of quantum mechanics is given. These principles provide strong constraints on interpretations. They imply the particle-like properties of mass, energy, momentum, spin, charge, and locality are actually properties of the wave function, and this in turn implies there is no evidence for the existence of particles. In addition, there is currently no experimental evidence for collapse, and a theory of collapse encounters significant hurdles. Further, the probability law is found to rule out the many-worlds interpretation, so all three major interpretations encounter serious to fatal problems. An interpretation which conforms to all the principles is given.

32 pages main text (for the general reader); 25 pages appendices (mathematical justification of the principles)

References in corpus (5)

• Relative States and the Environment: Einselection, Envariance, Quantum Darwinism, and the Existential Interpretation
• The Quantum Measurement Problem: State of Play
• Group Representational Clues to a Theory Underlying Quantum Mechanics
• Problems with Probability in Everett's Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics
• Derivation of the Born Rule from Operational Assumptions