Density Matrix Realism
- URL: http://arxiv.org/abs/2405.01025v1
- Date: Thu, 2 May 2024 05:56:34 GMT
- Title: Density Matrix Realism
- Authors: Eddy Keming Chen,
- Abstract summary: Realism about quantum theory naturally leads to realism about the quantum state of the universe.
I characterize and elaborate on Density Matrix Realism, the thesis that the universal quantum state is objective but can be impure.
- Score: 0.0
- License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
- Abstract: Realism about quantum theory naturally leads to realism about the quantum state of the universe. It leaves open whether it is a pure state represented by a wave function, or an impure one represented by a density matrix. I characterize and elaborate on Density Matrix Realism, the thesis that the universal quantum state is objective but can be impure. To clarify the thesis, I compare it with Wave Function Realism, explain the conditions under which they are empirically equivalent, consider two generalizations of Density Matrix Realism, and answer some frequently asked questions. I end by highlighting an implication for scientific realism.
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