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.
2010
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].
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11590/149409
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