The paper argues that the formulation of quantum mechanics proposed by Ghirardi,Rimini and Weber (GRW)is a serious candidate for being a fundamental physical theory and explores its ontological commitments from this perspective.In particular,we propose to conceive of spatial superpositions of non-massless microsystems as dispositions or powers,more precisely propensities,to generate spontaneous localizations.We set out five reasonsforthisview,namely that(1)it provides for a clear sense in which quantum systems in entangled states possess properties even in the absence of definite values;(2)it vindicates objective,single-case probabilities;(3)it yields a clear transition from quantum to classical properties;(4)it enables to draw a clear distinction between purely mathematical and physical structures, and(5)it grounds the arrow of time in the time-irreversible manifestation of the propensities to localize.
Dorato, M., Esfeld, M. (2010). GRW as an ontology of dispositions. STUDIES IN HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF MODERN PHYSICS, 41(1), 41-49 [10.1016/j.shpsb.2009.09.004].
GRW as an ontology of dispositions
DORATO, Mauro;
2010-01-01
Abstract
The paper argues that the formulation of quantum mechanics proposed by Ghirardi,Rimini and Weber (GRW)is a serious candidate for being a fundamental physical theory and explores its ontological commitments from this perspective.In particular,we propose to conceive of spatial superpositions of non-massless microsystems as dispositions or powers,more precisely propensities,to generate spontaneous localizations.We set out five reasonsforthisview,namely that(1)it provides for a clear sense in which quantum systems in entangled states possess properties even in the absence of definite values;(2)it vindicates objective,single-case probabilities;(3)it yields a clear transition from quantum to classical properties;(4)it enables to draw a clear distinction between purely mathematical and physical structures, and(5)it grounds the arrow of time in the time-irreversible manifestation of the propensities to localize.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.