Is Time-Reversed Causality Crucial in Cramer's Transactional Interpretation?

In summary, the transactional interpretation of quantum mechanics proposes that particles emit a wave forward in time, which is then met with a confirmation wave from a detector, also traveling forward in time. This interpretation aims to explain time anomalies observed in experiments such as the "delayed choice" and "double slit" experiments.
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ueit
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From the wikipedia entry:

"Suppose a particle (such as a photon) emitted from a source could interact with one of two detectors. According to TIQM, the source emits a usual (retarded) wave forward in time, the "offer wave", and when this wave reaches the detectors, each one replies with an advanced wave, the "confirmation wave", that travels backwards in time, back to the source."

I would interpret it this way:

A detector emits a wave forward in time. When a potential emitter receives the signal, it replies with another wave, forward in time as well, towards the detector.

I don't see the difference between a wave going backwards in time from the detector towards the source and a wave going forward in time in the opposite direction.
 
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Is the question too stupid or nobody is interested in the transactional interpretation here? Or, maybe, both of them?
 
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I think Cramer is trying to explain time anomolies exhibited in the "delayed choice" "double slit" experiments. Somehow a particle exhibits behavior based on events that have not yet happened. A forward time interpretation would not allow that possibility.
 
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This thread is 4 years old.
 

1. What is Cramer's transactional interpretation?

Cramer's transactional interpretation is a theory in quantum mechanics proposed by physicist John Cramer. It suggests that interactions between particles can be described as a two-way transaction, with a particle emitting a wave that travels back in time and is received by another particle, causing it to emit a wave in response. This theory is an alternative to the more widely accepted Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics.

2. What is backward-in-time causality?

Backward-in-time causality is the idea that events in the present can be influenced by events that occur in the future. In Cramer's transactional interpretation, this is achieved through the two-way transaction of waves between particles, where the future state of a particle can influence its past state.

3. Is backward-in-time causality a requirement in Cramer's transactional interpretation?

No, backward-in-time causality is not a requirement in Cramer's transactional interpretation. While this theory allows for the possibility of backward-in-time influence, it does not necessarily require it. In fact, Cramer himself stated that his theory could also be compatible with a more traditional, forward-causal view of time.

4. How does Cramer's transactional interpretation address the measurement problem in quantum mechanics?

The measurement problem in quantum mechanics refers to the issue of how the act of measurement can affect the behavior of particles. Cramer's transactional interpretation suggests that this problem can be resolved by viewing the measurement process as a two-way transaction between the measuring device and the particle being measured. This allows for a consistent, unified description of both the wave-like and particle-like behavior of particles.

5. What are the implications of Cramer's transactional interpretation for the concept of free will?

The concept of free will is a philosophical and ethical question that has been widely debated. In Cramer's transactional interpretation, the concept of free will may be seen in a new light, as the two-way transaction between particles allows for the possibility of future events influencing past events. This raises questions about the nature of causality and the extent to which individuals have control over their actions.

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