String Theory & Wavefunction collapse

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship between string theory and the collapse of the wave function in quantum mechanics (QM). Participants explore whether string theory offers any insights or explanations regarding this phenomenon, touching on various interpretations of quantum mechanics, including Bohmian mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that string theory does not provide an explanation for wave function collapse, suggesting that it assumes fundamental quantum formalism without deeper insights.
  • There is a mention that string theory focuses on on-shell calculations and does not incorporate "virtual strings," which may limit its explanatory power regarding wave function collapse.
  • One participant speculates that string theory might eventually contribute to understanding the cosmological wavefunction collapse.
  • Several participants express discomfort with the Bohmian interpretation of quantum mechanics, questioning its physical meaning and likening wave function collapse to analogies used in general relativity.
  • There is a call for more recognition of Bohmian approaches in discussions, suggesting that they should be treated on par with other theories like loop quantum gravity (LQG) and string theory.
  • Another participant challenges the discomfort with the Bohmian approach by pointing out that it posits no true wave-function collapse, prompting further inquiry into the reasons for skepticism.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the role of string theory in explaining wave function collapse, with some firmly stating it does not provide such explanations while others remain open to the possibility of future insights. There is also a division regarding the acceptance and interpretation of Bohmian mechanics, with some advocating for its consideration and others expressing skepticism.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of comfort with different interpretations of quantum mechanics, particularly regarding the implications of wave function collapse and the status of Bohmian mechanics compared to other theories. The discussion reflects ongoing debates and uncertainties in the field.

NeutronStar
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Does string theory provide an explanation for the collapse of the wave function in QM?

Thank you in advance for your comments.
 
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I don't think so. Basic string theory assumes that elementary quantum formalism is fundamental.
 
Right. String theory doesn't go any deeper in explanation than was previously worked out. One thing that they have though is that they only do on-shell calculations. This means they don't have "virtual strings" in their theory.
 
Thank you gentlemen,

I didn't think it offered an explanation but I just wanted to check to be sure.
 
Demystifier, you are a tireless advicate for Bohmian approaches. These were formerly a no-no here, but have come to be accepted as variants within the pale. Nevertheless, jogging our elbows on every possible occasion with "check out the Bohmian view" gets pretty old. Just a rant, not really a rejection.
 
It's possible that string theory may eventually have something to say about how the cosmological wavefunction collapses.
 
I too am uncomfortable with the Bohm approach. The wave function collapse, at least in my mind, is a useful analogy - not unlike the rubber sheet in GR. I doubt it is physically meaningful.
 
selfAdjoint said:
Demystifier, you are a tireless advicate for Bohmian approaches. These were formerly a no-no here, but have come to be accepted as variants within the pale. Nevertheless, jogging our elbows on every possible occasion with "check out the Bohmian view" gets pretty old. Just a rant, not really a rejection.
I just want to draw the physicists attention to the possibility that there is more about the Bohmian approach than they think. If LQG people and string people can advertise their approaches, I do not see a reason why Bohmian people could not do the same thing. Moreover, as the Bohmian approach is not that established as LQG and string theory, the bohmians are forced to be more aggresive in their advertisement if they want to become competitive.
 
  • #10
Chronos said:
I too am uncomfortable with the Bohm approach. The wave function collapse, at least in my mind, is a useful analogy - not unlike the rubber sheet in GR. I doubt it is physically meaningful.
Well, the Bohmian interpretation says that there is NO true wave-function collapse. So, why exactly are you uncomfortable with the Bohm approach?
 

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