Quantum Theory Needs (And Probably Has) Real Reduction

• URL: http://arxiv.org/abs/2304.10649v2
• Date: Sun, 7 May 2023 23:55:11 GMT
• Title: Quantum Theory Needs (And Probably Has) Real Reduction
• Authors: R. E. Kastner
• Abstract summary: It appears that for quantum theory to be viable in a realist sense, it must possess genuine, physical non-unitarity. Penrose's theory of gravitation-induced collapse and the Transactional Interpretation are discussed.
• Score: 0.0
• License: http://arxiv.org/licenses/nonexclusive-distrib/1.0/
• Abstract: The traditional, standard approach to quantum theory is to assume that the theory ``really'' contains only unitary physical dynamics--i.e., that the only physically quantifiable evolution is that given by the time-dependent Schrodinger equation. This leads to two distinct classes of interpretations for the standard theory in its orthodox form: (i) an Everettian-type approach assuming that all mutually exclusive outcomes occur in different ``branches'' of the universe; or (ii) single-outcome approaches that assume a ``projection postulate'' (PP) with no accompanying physical account within quantum theory. A contrasting, unorthodox approach is to suggest forms of quantum theory that involve physical non-unitarity; these are called ``objective collapse models.'' Among these are Penrose's theory of gravitation-induced collapse and the Transactional Interpretation. The primary focus of this paper is an example demonstrating that standard quantum theory (with or without the projection postulate) can in-principle yield empirically consequential inconsistencies. Thus, it appears that for quantum theory to be viable in a realist sense (as opposed to being an instrumentalist protocol in which inconsistencies are evaded by changing the protocol), it must possess genuine, physical non-unitarity yielding well-defined single outcomes. This leads to the conclusion that objective collapse models should be more seriously considered.

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