Observation Definition - What Is It?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the definition of "observation," particularly in the context of physics and quantum mechanics. Participants explore the nuances and implications of what constitutes an observation, touching on experimental outcomes and interactions with external entities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that "observation" lacks meaning without specifying what is being observed, proposing that it refers to the outcome of an experiment that can be documented.
  • Another participant claims that any quantum system is considered observed if it interacts with an outside agency, introducing the need to clarify what is meant by "interaction" and "outside agency."
  • A different viewpoint posits that an observation result in quantum mechanics can be framed as a logical statement, linking the observation to the truth of a specific outcome.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definition of observation, particularly in relation to quantum systems and the nature of interactions. No consensus is reached on a singular definition.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of defining observation, especially in quantum contexts, and raises questions about the implications of interactions and the criteria for what constitutes an observation.

scilover89
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Can someone tell me the definition of observation?
 
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scilover89 said:
Can someone tell me the definition of observation?

It is of course a very subtle issue. First of all, "observation" as such doesn't, I think, have any meaning. You have to observe *something*, and that something, in a physics setting, is "an outcome of experiment" (which can go from very sophisticated to trivial).
I would then say that an outcome of experiment is observed, if (at least in principle) it is possible to write down that outcome on a sheet of paper which can be send to a newspaper, and any action/setup/experiment that performs this, is an observation.

cheers,
Patrick.
 
Hi,

I would say that any quantum system can be said to have been observed if it interacts with an outside agency.

juju
 
Last edited:
In the quantum context, I will say that an observation result is simply a logical statement that is true (e.g. the particle is observed at position x <=> "the result of the observation is x" is true).

Seratend.
 
juju said:
Hi,

I would say that any quantum system can be said to have been observed if it interacts with an outside agency.

juju

Now you have to explain what "interaction" and "outside agency" mean. You've just doubled your workload.
 

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