Title: The wave function : essays on the metaphysics of quantum mechanics /
Authors: Ney, Alyssa.; Albert, David Z.
Publisher: Oxford University Press,
Year: 2013
Subjects: Quantum theory Philosophy; Metaphysics; Wave functions.; Metaphysics; Quantum theory Philosophy; Wave functions
Abstract: This is a new volume of original essays on the metaphysics of quantum mechanics. The essays address questions such as: What fundamental metaphysics is best motivated by quantum mechanics? What is the ontological status of the wave function? Does quantum mechanics support the existence of any other fundamental entities, e.g. particles? What is the nature of the fundamental space (or space-time manifold) of quantum mechanics? What is the relationship between the fundamental ontology of quantum mechanics and ordinary, macroscopic objects like tables, chairs, and persons? The volume includes a comprehensive introduction with a history of quantum mechanics and the debate over its metaphysical interpretation focusing especially on the main realist alternatives.
Contents: Wave function realism / David Z Albert -- Primitive ontology and the structure of fundamental physical theories / Valia Allori -- Whither wave function realism? / Steven French -- Reality and the role of the wave function in quantum theory / Sheldon Goldstein, Nino Zanghì -- Dimension and illusion / Peter J. Lewis -- The nature of the quantum state / Tim Maudlin -- Against 3N-dimensional space / Bradley Monton -- Ontological reduction and the wave function ontology / Alyssa Ney -- The structure of a quantum world / Jill North -- A prolegomenon to the ontology of the Everett interpretation / David Wallace.