Bell’s theorem still reverberates - article

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around Bell's theorem, its implications in quantum mechanics, and ongoing debates regarding its interpretations and experimental verifications. Participants share perspectives on the significance of the theorem in relation to hidden variables and quantum correlations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants highlight that Bell's theorem demonstrates that certain quantum correlations cannot be explained by any local hidden variables, suggesting a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics.
  • Others emphasize the ongoing experimental challenges, noting that verifications of quantum correlations still exhibit 'loopholes' that are subject to debate.
  • One participant points out the distinction between local and non-local hidden variables in the context of Bell's theorem.
  • There is a general acknowledgment of the profound implications of Bell's theorem in both metaphysics and quantum information science.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the significance of Bell's theorem and the impossibility of local hidden variables, but there remains disagreement regarding the interpretations and implications of the theorem, particularly concerning the experimental loopholes.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying interpretations of Bell's theorem and its implications, as well as the ongoing nature of experimental verification, which may depend on specific definitions and assumptions about quantum mechanics.

StevieTNZ
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Forwarded an article onto a Professor of Physics, and he replied with a comment about an article he'd written for Nature.

The link is http://www.nature.com/news/physics-bell-s-theorem-still-reverberates-1.15435

I thought I'd share it with you as some may be interested in reading it.

In 1964, Northern Irish physicist John Bell proved mathematically that certain quantum correlations, unlike all other correlations in the Universe, cannot arise from any local cause. This theorem has become central to both metaphysics and quantum information science. But 50 years on, the experimental verifications of these quantum correlations still have ‘loopholes’, and scientists and philosophers still dispute exactly what the theorem states.
 
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Interesting article. Bell's theorem always comes up when we discuss QM ideas at work. From my perspective, its quite profound to think that no hidden variables can be used to explain some QM event and that spooky action remains.
 
jedishrfu said:
no hidden variables can be used to explain some QM event
You mean no LOCAL hidden variables?
 
Good article. :smile:
 

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