Kochen-Specker Theorem, Physical Invariance and Quantum Individuality

Abstract

In this paper we attempt to discuss what has Kochen-Specker (KS) theorem to say about physical invariance and quantum individuality. In particular, we will discuss the impossibility of making reference to objective physical properties within the orthodox formalism of quantum mechanics. Through an analysis of the meaning of physical invariance and quantum contextuality we will derive a Corollary to KS theorem that proves that a vector in Hilbert space cannot be interpreted coherently as an object possessing (objective) physical properties. As a consequence, the notion of quantum object can be only defined in terms of nomological properties. We conclude the paper by analyzing the consequences of this Corollary to KS theorem for the ongoing debate about quantum individuality.

Cited by in corpus (5)

• Against 'Particle Metaphysics' and 'Collapses' within the Definition of Quantum Entanglement
• Beyond Purity and Mixtures in Categorical Quantum Mechanics
• Measuring Quantum Superpositions (Or, "It is only the theory which decides what can be observed.")
• The Logos Categorical Approach to Quantum Mechanics: III. Relational Potential Coding and Quantum Entanglement Beyond Collapses, Pure States and Particle Metaphysics
• The Dilemma of Quantum Individuality Beyond Particle Metaphysics