Observer free choice in quantum mechanics?

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  • #1
Loren Booda
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Does quantum mechanics allow an observer free choice of measurement?
 
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  • #2
Interactions with the invironment tend to "push" a physical system into an eigenstate of some observable. I guess you can call this a "measurement" without an observer.

This is what "decoherence" is all about.
 
  • #3


The concept of observer free choice in quantum mechanics is a highly debated topic among physicists and philosophers. In classical mechanics, the outcome of a measurement is determined by the initial conditions and the laws of physics. However, in quantum mechanics, the outcome of a measurement is probabilistic and can be influenced by the act of observation.

Some argue that this suggests an element of free will or choice for the observer in choosing which measurement to make. This idea is often referred to as the "measurement problem" in quantum mechanics. However, others argue that the apparent randomness of quantum mechanics is simply due to our lack of understanding and that there is no true free choice involved.

It is important to note that the concept of free will is a philosophical and metaphysical question, and not something that can be answered definitively by science. While quantum mechanics may offer some interesting insights and perspectives on the nature of reality and our role as observers, it is ultimately up to individual interpretation and belief.
 

1. What is observer free choice in quantum mechanics?

Observer free choice in quantum mechanics refers to the concept that the act of observation or measurement does not determine the outcome of a quantum system. In other words, the behavior of particles is not determined by the observer, but rather by inherent randomness in the system.

2. How does observer free choice differ from classical mechanics?

In classical mechanics, the behavior of particles is determined by their initial conditions and the laws of physics. However, in quantum mechanics, the behavior of particles is probabilistic and can only be described by wave functions. The act of observation or measurement in quantum mechanics introduces uncertainty and randomness, which is not present in classical mechanics.

3. Does observer free choice violate the principle of causality?

No, observer free choice does not violate the principle of causality. While the outcome of a quantum system may seem random, there are still underlying causes that determine the probabilities of different outcomes. These probabilities can be calculated using mathematical equations such as the Schrödinger equation.

4. How is observer free choice related to the collapse of the wave function?

The collapse of the wave function is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that occurs when a particle is measured or observed. It describes the transition from a probabilistic wave function to a definite state. Observer free choice is related to the collapse of the wave function because the act of observation or measurement is what causes the collapse to happen.

5. Is there any evidence for observer free choice in quantum mechanics?

While there is not yet a definitive answer, some experiments have shown results that support the concept of observer free choice in quantum mechanics. For example, the double-slit experiment has demonstrated that particles can behave differently when observed compared to when they are not observed. However, more research and evidence are needed to fully understand the role of the observer in quantum systems.

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