Pilot wave

Abstract: Superposition the mathematical formalism and the standard way of thinking about it nonlocality the measurement problem the collapse of the wave function the dynamics by itself Bohm's theory self-measurement. Appendix: the Kochen-Healy-Dieks interpretations.

Abstract: The measurement problem in quantum mechanics is re-examined and it is shown that it cannot really be solved in a satisfactory way, within the framework of the usual interpretation of the theory. We then discuss von Neumann's attempts to prove that quantum mechanics is incompatible with the introduction of hidden variables, and develop a more detailed form of Bell's argument, showing that von Neumann's analysis is invalid. Using certain ideas that are implicit in the "differential-space" theory of Wiener and Siegel, we go on to propose a new deterministic equation of motion, describing a kind of coupling of the measuring instrument to the observed system that explains in detail how the wave packet is "reduced" during a measurement in a continuous and causally determined way. By averaging over the hidden parameters, we then recover the usual statistical results of quantum mechanics as a special case. However, a more detailed analysis of the theory shows that new experimental and theoretical questions can now be raised, which go outside the framework of the quantum theory as it is now formulated. These questions are examined briefly.

Abstract: The strange story of the von Neumann impossibility proof is recalled, and the even stranger story of later impossibility proofs, and how the impossible was done by de Broglie and Bohm. Morals are drawn.

Abstract: We reconsider the crucial 1927 Solvay conference in the context of current research in the foundations of quantum theory Contrary to folklore, the interpretation question was not settled at this conference and no consensus was reached; instead, a range of sharply conflicting views were presented and extensively discussed Today, there is no longer an established or dominant interpretation of quantum theory, so it is important to re-evaluate the historical sources and keep the interpretation debate open In this spirit, we provide a complete English translation of the original proceedings (lectures and discussions), and give background essays on the three main interpretations presented: de Broglie's pilot-wave theory, Born and Heisenberg's quantum mechanics, and Schroedinger's wave mechanics We provide an extensive analysis of the lectures and discussions that took place, in the light of current debates about the meaning of quantum theory The proceedings contain much unexpected material, including extensive discussions of de Broglie's pilot-wave theory (which de Broglie presented for a many-body system), and a "quantum mechanics" apparently lacking in wave function collapse or fundamental time evolution We hope that the book will contribute to the ongoing revival of research in quantum foundations, as well as stimulate a reconsideration of the historical development of quantum physics A more detailed description of the book may be found in the Preface (Copyright by Cambridge University Press (ISBN: 9780521814218))