Synthese 110 (2):191-216 (1997)
Abstract |
This paper attempts an interpretation of Everett''s relative state formulation of quantum mechanics that avoids the commitment to new metaphysical entities like worlds or minds. Starting from Everett''s quantum mechanical model of an observer, it is argued that an observer''s belief to be in an eigenstate of the measurement (corresponding to the observation of a well-defined measurement outcome) is consistent with the fact that she objectively is in a superposition of such states. Subjective states corresponding to such beliefs are constructed. From an analysis of these subjective states and their dynamics it is argued that Everett''s pure wave mechanics is subjectively consistent with von Neumann''s classical formulation of quantum mechanics. It follows from the argument that the objective state of a system is in principle unobservable. Nevertheless, an adequate concept of empirical reality can be constructed.
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Keywords | Philosophy Philosophy Epistemology Logic Metaphysics Philosophy of Language |
Categories | (categorize this paper) |
DOI | 10.1023/A:1004981126055 |
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Quantum Holism and the Philosophy of Mind.Michael Esfeld - 1999 - Journal of Consciousness Studies 6 (1):23-38.
Ecstatic Language of Early Daoism: A Sufi Point of View.Esmaeil Radpour - 2015 - Transcendent Philosophy Journal 16:213-230.
Holismus und Verbindungen zwischen der Philosophie des Geistes und der Philosophie der Physik.Michael Esfeld - 1998 - Conceptus: Zeitschrift Fur Philosophie 31 (79):153-174.
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