Could wavefunctions simultaneously represent knowledge and reality?

Abstract

In discussion of the interpretation of quantum mechanics the terms `ontic' and `epistemic' are often used in the sense of pertaining to what exists, and pertaining to cognition or knowledge respectively. The terms are also often associated with the formal definitions given by Harrigan and Spekkens for the wavefunction in quantum mechanics to be $\psi$-ontic or $\psi$-epistemic in the context of the ontological models framework. The formal definitions are contradictories, so that the wavefunction can be either $\psi$-epistemic or $\psi$-ontic but not both. However, we argue, nothing about the informal ideas of epistemic and ontic interpretations rules out wavefunctions representing both reality and knowledge. The implications of the Pusey-Barrett-Rudolph theorem and many other issues may be rethought in the light of our analysis.

7 pages, 1 figure. Published in Quantum Studies: Mathematics and Foundations. Matches published version

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• The wavefunction as a true ensemble
• On the reality of the quantum state once again: A no-go theorem for $\psi$-ontic models
• Quantum Reconstructions as Stepping Stones toward Psi-Doxastic Interpretations?
• Defending the Quantum Reconstruction Program
• Information versus Physicality: On the Nature of the Wavefunctions of Quantum Mechanics
• What does it take to solve the measurement problem?
• Limits of Absoluteness of Observed Events in Timelike Scenarios: A No-Go Theorem